Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced a 16-member squad for the first Test against India, which is set to begin on August 15 in Galle. Dhananjaya De Silva, the batting all-rounder for Sri Lanka, will lead the side while the ambidextrous spinner Kamindu Mendis will serve as the vice-captain of the side.
Niroshan Dickwella is in contention to return to Sri Lanka's Test side after being included in the squad for the upcoming assignment. The wicketkeeper-batter last represented Sri Lanka in the longest format in 2023, when he featured against New Zealand. His experience could prove valuable as the team looks to strengthen its Test setup.
Young batter Pasindu Sooriyabandara has also earned a place in the squad following a productive run in domestic
cricket. The right-hander has impressed with his performances and could now be handed an opportunity to make his Test debut if the team management decides to back him.
Sri Lanka have another potential debutant in off-spinner Keshara Nuwantha. The young bowler has built a strong reputation through his performances at the domestic level and could provide an additional spin option to the Test attack.
Left-arm fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka has also been recalled after a lengthy absence from the format. Madushanka has played only one Test so far, making his debut against Pakistan in 2023. His return could add variety, pace and a left-arm option to Sri Lanka's bowling attack, further strengthening the squad ahead of the series.
Sri Lanka Squad
Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Kamindu Mendis (vc), 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
