Sri Lanka are facing a major selection headache ahead of the two-match Test series against India, with key batters Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis unlikely to recover from their injuries in time.
Both players are continuing their rehabilitation and are attempting to be available for the second Test, but at this stage their chances of returning even for that match appear slim, according to Sri Lanka Cricket sources.
Recent reports have already indicated that Nissanka will miss the opening Test, while Mendis’ injury could potentially keep him out of the entire series.
Nishan Madushka is the most likely candidate to replace Nissanka at the top of the order. Madushka strengthened his case by scoring 66 for the SLC XI in the ongoing three-day warm-up match against India.
However, replacing Mendis presents Sri Lanka with a more complicated problem, particularly over who will take the wicketkeeping gloves.
Sadeera Samarawickrama, Anjana Bandara and Niroshan Dickwella are among the wicketkeeping options available outside the expected combination.
Sri Lanka could also consider using Lahiru Udara or Dinesh Chandimal behind the stumps, although that appears less likely given their expected roles in the batting order.
The opening Test begins in Galle on August 15, with the second Test scheduled to begin at the SSC in Colombo on August 23. (Newswire)