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IND vs SL: Sri Lanka Name Two Replacements as Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal Miss 2nd Test vs India
Sanjeev Kumar | August 21, 2026 8:22 PM CST

Sri Lanka have been forced to make significant changes to their squad for the second and final Test against India, with injuries ruling out experienced batters Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal.

The hosts, who suffered a 165-run defeat in the opening Test in Galle, will now turn to fresh options as they look to level the series in Colombo.

Sri Lanka Cricket has added Sahan Arachchige and Kamil Mishara to the squad for the second Test, scheduled to begin on August 23 at the SSC in Colombo. The duo will provide additional batting options as Sri Lanka deal with a depleted top order.

Mendis will miss the match after suffering a hamstring injury during the Lanka Premier League last month. His absence further weakens Sri Lanka's batting resources, with the experienced right-hander having been an important member of the side.

Chandimal, meanwhile, has been ruled out after suffering a concussion while fielding during the first Test. Under the concussion replacement regulations, he is required to undergo a mandatory seven-day rest period, preventing him from featuring in the Colombo Test.

Chandimal's place had already been taken during the first Test by Pasindu Sooryabandara as a concussion replacement. Sooryabandara, who was initially among the players outside the playing XI, was drafted into the match after Chandimal's injury.

Sri Lanka's batting has also been affected by the continued absence of Pathum Nissanka, who is recovering from wrist surgery carried out in June. The hosts will therefore enter the second Test with several key batting positions requiring fresh personnel.

The changes come at a crucial stage of the series. India head into the Colombo Test with a 1-0 advantage after their commanding victory in Galle, leaving Sri Lanka needing a strong response to avoid losing the series.


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