Opening batter Pathum Nissanka also remains a major doubt for the second Test, beginning on Sunday, August 23 in Colombo. Sri Lanka’s hopes of mounting a series comeback against India have suffered a massive setback, with senior batters Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal officially ruled out of the upcoming second Test in Colombo.
Sri Lanka Coach’s Assessment
The injury crisis increases Sri Lanka’s troubles following their heavy 165-run defeat in the first Test at Galle, leaving head coach Gary Kirsten with a depleted batting lineup heading into the decisive match at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC). On the other hand, India, led by Shubman Gill, will head into the series-decider with momentum after their comprehensive Galle victory, in which spinner Manav Suthar claimed a 10-wicket match haul. Notably, Sri Lanka have not yet announced their squad for the second Test.
“Kusal Mendis has a proper hamstring injury, and will not be available for a while,” Kirsten said. Kusal Mendis has been sidelined since tearing his hamstring during the Lanka Premier League (LPL). His rehabilitation will keep him out of competitive action for several weeks. Pathum Nissanka continues his recovery following wrist surgery in June. He is understood to be closer than Mendis to being match fit, but is still experiencing discomfort while batting. The squad named by SLC was only for the first Test.
Sri Lanka’s depleted batting order will face a stern examination on a venue that has historically offered assistance to spin, testing the depth of their squad as they seek to salvage a share of the series.
