Sri Lanka could be without three of their first-choice batters for the second Test against India in Colombo. Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal have already been ruled out, while Pathum Nissanka remains a doubt. The absences come at a difficult time for Sri Lanka. They need a strong response in Colombo after losing the first Test in Galle. The second match is also a must-win game for the hosts.
Mendis Sidelined With Hamstring Injury
Mendis suffered a hamstring injury during the Lanka Premier League. His recovery is expected to take some time, with Sri Lanka head coach Gary Kirsten confirming that the batter will miss the upcoming Test.
“Kusal Mendis has got a proper hamstring injury. He’s not going to be available for a while,” Kirsten said after Sri Lanka’s defeat in Galle. Mendis’ replacement, Niroshan Dickwella, showed his value with the bat in the first Test. The wicketkeeper-batter scored 80 runs in the first innings after coming into the Test squad.
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Nissanka and Chandimal Doubts
Nissanka is also facing a race against time to be fit for the Colombo Test. The top-order batter is recovering from wrist surgery and could miss the game. Kirsten also provided an update on Chandimal after the veteran batter suffered an injury while fielding in Galle. “I’m not sure of the injury update, but as it stands at the moment, those guys…
Nissanka as well, Dinesh [Chandimal] is not available for the next Test. We’re missing a few guys.” Chandimal hurt his neck and shoulder during the first Test. His absence would leave another major gap in Sri Lanka’s batting order ahead of the crucial Colombo clash.
Sooriyabandara Faces Pressure
Pasindu Sooriyabandara stepped in as Chandimal’s concussion substitute during the Galle Test. The youngster had a difficult start to his international career, as he was dismissed for a first-ball duck. Sri Lanka now face a major selection challenge before the second Test. With Mendis unavailable, Nissanka doubtful and Chandimal ruled out, the hosts will need their replacements to step up against India in Colombo.
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