Sri Lanka have added Kamil Mishara and Sahan Arachchige to their Test squad for the second match against India, with the hosts dealing with a growing injury crisis after their 165-run defeat in the opening Test at Galle.
The two uncapped players have been brought into the squad as Sri Lanka look to level the two-match series in Colombo. The hosts will be without several experienced players, leaving the team management with difficult selection decisions ahead of the series-deciding encounter.
Kamil Mishara and Sahan Arachchige Added to Sri Lanka Squad
Top-order batter Kamil Mishara and all-rounder Sahan Arachchige have earned call-ups as Sri Lanka prepare for the second Test against India, scheduled to begin on Sunday, August 23.
Arachchige has been rewarded for an impressive performance for Sri Lanka A against India A. While captaining the side, he scored a determined 127 in the second unofficial Test.
Although Sri Lanka A eventually suffered a 10-wicket defeat, Arachchige’s century stood out as one of the team’s major positives and helped him earn his first call-up to the senior Test squad.
Sri Lanka Face Major Injury Problems
The additions come at a difficult time for Sri Lanka, who are facing several injury-related selection problems after the first Test.
Kusal Mendis is expected to spend an extended period on the sidelines after suffering a serious hamstring tear. The injury is particularly concerning because he had already experienced hamstring problems during the Lanka Premier League.
Niroshan Dickwella has been brought into the squad to cover for Mendis as Sri Lanka attempt to rebuild their batting options for the Colombo Test.
Dinesh chandimal has also been ruled out after sustaining an injury on the fourth day of the Galle Test. He will undergo the mandatory seven-day concussion protocol, with Pasindu Sooriyabandara coming into the squad as his replacement.
Arachchige Earns Test Opportunity After India A Performance
Sahan Arachchige’s selection comes after an impressive display against India A. The all-rounder showed considerable composure while scoring 127 in the middle order during the second unofficial Test.
His innings provided evidence that he can handle pressure against Indian bowling and construct a long innings when his team needs stability.
Despite Sri Lanka A losing the match by 10 wickets, Arachchige’s performance was enough to attract the attention of the national selectors.
The Colombo Test could now provide him with an opportunity to make his senior international debut if the team management decides to include him in the playing XI.
Kamil Mishara Brings White-Ball Form Into Test Setup
Kamil Mishara has also earned his place after producing strong performances in limited-overs cricket. The batter enjoyed a promising run during the 2026 Lanka Premier League before making another statement in domestic cricket.
On the same day that his Test call-up was announced, Mishara smashed a spectacular 145 from just 72 deliveries in the Major Clubs T20 tournament.
His aggressive batting style could provide Sri Lanka with another option at the top of the order as the hosts attempt to counter India’s bowling attack.
India Lead 1-0 Ahead of Colombo Test
India currently lead the two-match Test series 1-0 after registering a convincing 165-run victory in Galle.
India’s win was powered by major contributions from several players, including young left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, who claimed 10 wickets in the match. Devdutt Padikkal also impressed with a century in his first innings and a valuable contribution in the second.
Sri Lanka will therefore need a significant improvement in both batting and bowling if they are to prevent India from completing a series sweep.
Second Test Set for Colombo
The second Test between Sri Lanka and India will begin on August 23 at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. With Sri Lanka already trailing 1-0 and dealing with multiple injuries, the hosts face a major challenge.
The inclusion of Mishara and Arachchige gives Sri Lanka additional depth and fresh options, but it remains to be seen whether either uncapped player will make the final XI.
For India, a victory in Colombo would complete a 2-0 series triumph, while Sri Lanka must win the Test to level the series.
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