The next match of the two-Test series between India and Sri Lanka will begin on August 23 at the SSC Ground in Colombo. Sri Lanka has made two changes to its squad for this match—such changes were anticipated following the crushing 165-run defeat in the Galle Test.
IND vs SL Test: Sri Lanka has made changes to its squad for the Colombo Test against India
For the second Test in Colombo, Sri Lanka has included batsman Kamil Mishara and all-rounder Sahan Arachchige in the squad, while Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal have been dropped. Meanwhile, uncertainty remains regarding Pathum Nissanka's fitness.
Mendis out due to injury; Chandimal also ruled out under ICC rules
Following the defeat in the first match at Galle Stadium, a Cricbuzz report indicates that Sahan Arachchige and Kamil Mishara have been added to the squad. Kusal Mendis had missed the first match due to a hamstring injury; although there were hopes he would recover in time for the second match, he has now been ruled out of the Colombo Test as well, having failed to regain full fitness.
Meanwhile, Dinesh Chandimal—who was part of Sri Lanka's playing XI for the Galle Test—had to leave the field mid-match after sustaining an injury while fielding; Pasindu Sooriyabandara was brought in as a concussion substitute in his place. Consequently, Chandimal will be unable to participate in the second match due to the ICC's concussion protocols, which mandate a minimum period of seven days before a player can return to the field.
Arachchige performed well in the series against India A
Sahan Arachchige, who has been included in the Sri Lanka squad for the Colombo Test, has not yet played a Test match. He delivered an impressive performance in the unofficial Test matches between India A and Sri Lanka A a few months ago, notably scoring 127 runs in the second match.
Kamil Mishara batted well in the recently concluded Lanka Premier League season. It is worth noting that winning this series 2-0 is crucial for the Indian team in the current World Test Championship cycle, as it will help improve their standing in the WTC 2025-27 rankings.
Sri Lanka's squad for the Colombo Test against India
Dhananjaya de Silva (Captain), Kamindu Mendis (Vice-Captain), Niroshan Dickwella, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Nishan Madushka Fernando, Lahiru Udara, Sonal Dinusha, Keshara Nuwantha, Sahan Arachchige, Kamil Mishara.
