Sri Lanka Overhaul Squad for Second Test Against India After Galle Setback

Sri Lanka have overhauled their squad for the second and final Test against India, seeking to recover from a heavy defeat in the opening match in Galle. With key batters Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal ruled out, the hosts have called up an uncapped duo for the Colombo Test, which begins on August 23.

Injuries Force Sri Lanka into Squad Changes

Sri Lanka’s series deficit of 0-1 has been compounded by a growing list of batting concerns. Kusal Mendis has been ruled out after suffering what head coach Gary Kirsten described as a ‘proper hamstring injury’ during the opening Test. The wicketkeeper-batter is expected to remain sidelined for an extended period. Niroshan Dickwella, who was already added to the squad as cover for Mendis, is now in line to take over the wicketkeeping duties.

Dinesh Chandimal‘s absence is also confirmed after he entered concussion protocols following an injury on the fourth day in Galle. Under the mandatory stand-down period, he is ineligible to return for the Colombo Test. Meanwhile, Pathum Nissanka remains a concern as he continues his recovery from wrist surgery, leaving Sri Lanka searching for additional options at the top and middle of the order.

Batting All-Rounder Earns Call-Up After Sri Lanka A Performance

Sahan Arachchige has received his first Test call-up after making a strong impression for Sri Lanka A against India A. The all-rounder produced an crucial 127 in the second unofficial Test, finishing as Sri Lanka A’s highest run-scorer across the series. Arachchige’s innings came while batting at number five and leading the side. Although his team eventually suffered a 10-wicket defeat, his individual performance provided a timely boost to his Test ambitions. With Sri Lanka suddenly short of experienced batting options, his ability to contribute with both bat and ball could prove valuable in Colombo.

LPL Talent Arrives After Stunning T20 Performance

Kamil Mishara has also earned his place in the squad on the back of impressive recent form. The batter enjoyed a productive first Lanka Premier League campaign before carrying that momentum into the Major Clubs T20 tournament. Mishara’s timing could hardly have been better. On the very day he received his Test call-up, he smashed a breathtaking 145 from just 72 deliveries. The explosive knock strengthened his case for a place in Sri Lanka’s starting XI.

Sri Lanka have already had to adjust their combination during the series, with Pasindu Sooriyabandara stepping in as Chandimal’s concussion substitute in Galle. The latest changes are likely to lead to another reshuffle as the hosts look to recover from their opening-Test loss.

Sri Lanka Squad for the Second Test: Nishan Madushka, Lahiru Udara, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (captain), Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Niroshan Dickwella (wicketkeeper), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Sonal Dinusha, Milan Priyanath Rathnayake, Keshara Nuwantha, Kamil Mishara, and Sahan Arachchige.

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