Sri Lanka’s squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against India is expected to be announced in the coming days. It is unlikely to be a straightforward selection, especially after the team’s defeat in the Caribbean. Incumbent opener Pathum Nissanka is set to return after missing the Test series against the West Indies and the ongoing sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL).
Nissanka underwent successful wrist surgery in London. Following the operation, it was announced that he would be sidelined for four to six weeks while recovering from the procedure.
Now, according to a source, Nissanka is expected to feature in the series opener against India in Galle, which begins on 15 August.
His return is a major boost for Sri Lanka, particularly as first-choice wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis is nursing a hamstring injury. He is in a race against time to be fit for the opening Test.
If Mendis is unavailable for the first Test, Anjala Bandara could receive his maiden Test call-up. The young wicketkeeper-batter averages more than 60 in first-class cricket and was part of the Sri Lanka A squad for the recent red-ball series against India A.
Niroshan Dickwella, who has 54 Test caps to his name, is another option under consideration.
Apart from Anjala, the other uncapped batters in contention are Sahan Arachchige, Pavan Rathnayake, Ashen Bandara and Janith Liyanage.
Spin-bowling all-rounder Sonal Dinusha is expected to retain his place in the squad alongside Prabath Jayasuriya. Ramesh Mendis also has a chance to earn a recall, given the lack of quality spin-bowling options in Sri Lanka’s red-ball ranks.
Asitha Fernando is expected to lead the pace attack. Vishwa Fernando, because of his left-arm angle, could once again retain his place. It remains to be seen whether the selectors opt for both Kasun Rajitha and Milan Rathnayake, or just one of them, for the home series.
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