India and Sri Lanka are set to begin their two-match Test series on August 15, with the opening game scheduled at the Galle International Stadium. With both teams preparing for a crucial battle, the weather could play a significant role in determining how the first Test unfolds.
For India, the series carries added importance in the World Test Championship (WTC) race. The Shubman Gill-led side needs six wins from its next nine matches to strengthen its chances of reaching the WTC final, making a positive start in Sri Lanka particularly important.
India Enter Test Series With Confidence
India head into the opening Test after securing a convincing six-wicket victory in their three-day practice match. Several players impressed during the warm-up fixture, with Devdutt Padikkal and Yashasvi
Jaiswal among those who made an impact.
The team management will hope the strong showing in the practice game translates into the Test series as India look to gain an early advantage in the two-match contest.
However, aside from team combinations and player form, the weather could be one of the biggest talking points ahead of the series opener.
India vs Sri Lanka: What Is The Weather Forecast In Galle?
According to AccuWeather, rain is expected to be a major factor in Galle on the opening day of the Test. The forecast indicates a 90 per cent chance of rain, with cloud cover at around 92 per cent.
With the possibility of showers remaining high, interruptions could affect the opening day's proceedings. The conditions could also have a bearing on the toss, with both captains likely to consider the weather before deciding whether to bat or bowl first.
A wet start could make the contest even more challenging for the players and potentially influence the teams' bowling combinations.
India vs Sri Lanka: Squad
India Squad: Shubman Gill (C), KL Rahul (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi, Sarfaraz Khan.
Sri Lanka Squad: Dhananjaya de Silva (C), Kamindu Mendis (VC), Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella (WK), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.
