Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka Miss Out on Sri Lanka’s Test Squad
Sri Lanka’s upcoming Test series will proceed without key players Kusal Mendis, who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury, and Pathum Nissanka, currently recovering from wrist surgery. Mendis’s absence has paved the way for a notable return of Niroshan Dickwella at the age of 33. Pasindu Sooriyabandara retains his spot in the squad, also benefiting from Nissanka’s exclusion.
Nishan Madushka and Lahiru Udara are set to take on the opening batting duties, having performed in Sri Lanka’s previous Test match. In a surprising move for a home series, the selectors have included four specialist fast bowlers, with allrounder Milan Rathnayaka providing an additional seam-bowling option. Asitha Fernando is expected to feature prominently, alongside Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, and Dilshan Madushanka.
On the spin bowling front, only three front-line spinners have been chosen. Prabath Jayasuriya will lead the spin attack, potentially supported by the uncapped Keshara Nuwantha or Ramesh Mendis. Additionally, Allrounder Sonal Dinusha completes the squad of 16.
Batting positions appear more predictable, with Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, and Dhananjaya de Silva likely filling the 3, 4, and 5 slots, respectively. Lower down the order, allrounders Dinusha, Ramesh Mendis, and Rathnayaka are also in contention, while Dickwella is anticipated to bat at either number 6 or 7.
Keshara Nuwantha, 25, impressed with a performance in a Sri Lanka A match against India A in Galle last month, taking 5 for 159 in the first innings. He further showcased his capability with match figures of 3 for 97 in a recent tour match against India in Colombo, although he has limited experience in first-class cricket with just 15 appearances and 64 wickets.
Conversely, Dilshan Madushanka has predominantly participated in T20 competitions over the last two months, missing out on the Sri Lanka four-day domestic tournament and multi-day fixtures. His last Test appearance was his debut against Pakistan in 2023, where he has yet to secure a wicket.
The first Test is scheduled to begin in Galle on Saturday, followed by the second match at the SSC in Colombo on August 23.
Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn
