Sri Lanka has bolstered its squad for the second Test against India in Colombo by drafting in batter Kamil Mishara and all-rounder Sahan Arachchige. The team faces significant personnel challenges, as Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal are confirmed to be unavailable, while Pathum Nissanka is also considered unlikely to participate in the upcoming fixture, which is scheduled to begin on August 23.
Head coach Gary Kirsten confirmed that Mendis is suffering from a “proper hamstring injury” that will keep him sidelined for an extended period. The issue originated during the Lanka Premier League, leading to his replacement in the squad by Niroshan Dickwella. Meanwhile, Chandimal has been ruled out due to a concussion sustained on the fourth day of the first Test in Galle, where India secured a 165-run victory. Concussion protocols require a mandatory seven-day stand-down period, resulting in Pasindu Sooriyabandara being named as his replacement.
The new additions bring strong domestic form to the side. Arachchige, who is currently uncapped at the Test level, led the Lanka A team during their unofficial Test series against India A. Despite a 10-wicket defeat in that match, he stood out as the series’ top run-scorer, highlighted by a defiant 127-run innings while batting at number five.
Mishara has also demonstrated excellent form, having enjoyed a successful debut season in the 2026 Lanka Premier League. He maintained this momentum on the very day of his Test call-up, striking a blistering 145 off 72 balls during a Major Clubs T20 tournament match. The report also notes that with concussion protocols necessitating a minimum seven-day stand-down time, chandimal was ruled out following an injury on Day 4.
