Sri Lanka's cricket team has officially announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship series against India. The first Test is set to take place in Galle from August 15 to 19, followed by the second Test in Colombo from August 23 to 27. Dhananjaya de Silva will captain the side, with Kamindu Mendis serving as vice-captain.
The squad sees the return of Niroshan Dickwella, who is poised to reclaim his spot as wicketkeeper after regular player Kusal Mendis was sidelined due to injury. Dickwella last appeared in a Test match for Sri Lanka against New Zealand earlier in 2023. Additionally, experienced batter Pathum Nissanka will miss the series as he continues to recover from wrist surgery.
Several players in the squad are on the brink of making their Test debuts. Among them is batter Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who has impressed selectors with his performances in domestic cricket. Right-arm off-spinner Keshara Nuwantha is also in contention for his first Test appearance, adding depth to Sri Lanka's bowling options.
In a notable return, left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka has been recalled to the squad after making his only Test appearance against Pakistan earlier this year. His inclusion provides Sri Lanka with an additional left-arm option, enhancing the variety in their pace attack.
The squad also boasts experienced players such as Dinesh Chandimal, Prabath Jayasuriya, Ramesh Mendis, and Asitha Fernando, all of whom bring valuable experience to the team as they prepare to face a formidable Indian side.
Currently, Sri Lanka occupies the sixth position in the World Test Championship standings, holding a points percentage of 41.67 after four matches, which includes one victory. In contrast, India sits fifth with a points percentage of 48.15, having played nine Tests and secured four wins. Both teams will be eager to improve their standings in the championship race during this two-Test series.
The full Sri Lanka squad for the series is as follows: Dhananjaya de Silva (captain), Lahiru Udana, Nishan Madushka, Kamindu Mendis (vice-captain), Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella, Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, and Dilshan Madushanka.
The series schedule is as follows: First Test from August 15-19 in Galle and the Second Test from August 23-27 in Colombo.
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