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India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test Squad: The second and final match of the two-Test series between India and Sri Lanka is set to begin in Colombo on August 23. The Indian team, having taken a 1-0 lead by winning the first match, has already arrived in Colombo. Meanwhile, the host nation, facing a crisis after losing the opener, has announced its squad just two days before the match.
Dinesh Chandimal out; surprise entry of two new faces
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The Sri Lankan team is witnessing significant upheaval as it grapples with injury woes.
- Dinesh Chandimal Ruled Out: Veteran Dinesh Chandimal, who had to leave the first Test midway due to a concussion (head injury), has now been completely ruled out of the second Test as well.
- Fresh Faces Included: Kamil Mishara and Sahan Arachchige have been added to the squad. Neither of these uncapped players has made their Test debut yet; if selected for the playing XI, this would mark their first international Test match.
- Three Key Players Dropped: Paying the price for poor performances, Nishan Madushka, Ramesh Mendis, and fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka have been dropped from the squad.
Also Read: Australia announce playing 11 for 2nd test vs BAN, Renshaw returns
Injuries and Opening Defeat Leave Sri Lanka Under Pressure
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The pressure within the Sri Lankan dressing room is palpable following the loss in the first Test. Amidst injuries and major squad changes, the hosts face a stiff challenge to level the series. With the second match starting on August 23, Sri Lanka has only two days to rectify its errors.
Crucial Match for WTC Standings: India Aim to Consolidate Top Rank
This series is part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). As for the points table:
- Team India: Currently holding the 5th spot and will aim to further strengthen its position by winning this match.
- Sri Lanka: Has slipped to the 6th spot; losing the series would deal a major blow to its WTC campaign.
IND vs SL 2nd Test: Updated Squads for Both Teams
Sri Lanka Squad: Dhananjaya de Silva (Captain), Kamindu Mendis (Vice-Captain), Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sahan Arachchige, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella, Keshara Nuwanta, Prabath Jayasuriya, Milan Rathnayake, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando.
India Squad: Shubman Gill (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi.
Also Read: Most Runs for Australia in Tests: Steve Smith Set to Overtake Steve Waugh
