Sri Lanka’s hopes of mounting a series comeback against India have suffered a massive setback, with senior batters Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal officially ruled out of the upcoming second Test in Colombo. Opening batter Pathum Nissanka also remains a major doubt for the second Test, beginning on Sunday, August 23 in Colombo.
Sri Lanka Coach’s Assessment
Notably, Sri Lanka have not yet announced their squad for the second Test. The squad named by SLC was only for the first Test. The injury crisis increases Sri Lanka’s troubles following their heavy 165-run defeat in the first Test at Galle, leaving head coach Gary Kirsten with a depleted batting lineup heading into the decisive match at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC).
Sri Lanka’s depleted batting order will face a stern examination on a venue that has historically offered assistance to spin, testing the depth of their squad as they seek to salvage a share of the series.
