Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially announced a 16-member squad for the opening Test of their two-match series against India, set to take place at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from August 15 to 19. A notable inclusion in the squad is veteran wicketkeeper-batter Niroshan Dickwella, who is making a return to the Test side after being absent for a period.
Dhananjaya de Silva has been appointed as the captain of the team, with Kamindu Mendis serving as his deputy. The squad's composition has been impacted by the injury of Kusal Mendis, who has been ruled out of the first Test, prompting the selection of Dickwella as the primary wicketkeeper.
In addition to Kusal Mendis, batter Pathum Nissanka has also been omitted from the squad for this opening match against India. The batting lineup will feature Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, and Sonal Dinusha, providing a mix of experience and youth as they prepare to face a formidable Indian bowling attack.
On the bowling front, Sri Lanka has opted for a balanced approach with three specialist spinners: Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, and Keshara Nuwantha. The pace attack will consist of Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, and Dilshan Madushanka, all of whom will be crucial in exploiting the home conditions that Galle is known for.
This Test series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle, making it an important fixture for both teams as they strive to improve their standings. Currently, India sits fifth in the World Test Championship standings, having achieved four wins and suffered four losses in nine matches, which gives them a Points Percentage (PCT) of 48.150. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka is positioned sixth, with one win, one draw, and two defeats to their name.
With home advantage likely to play a significant role, Sri Lanka will be looking to their experienced players, including Dinesh Chandimal and the returning Niroshan Dickwella, to lead the charge against India’s Test side. The upcoming match promises to be a competitive encounter as both teams aim to secure vital points in the World Test Championship.
Sri Lanka squad: Dhananjaya de Silva (captain), Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Kamindu Mendis (vc), Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.
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