Synopsis
Ahead of the second Test against Australia starting Thursday in Galle, Sri Lanka has made significant squad changes. Ramesh Mendis is recalled while Vishwa Fernando and Lahiru Udara have been dropped, as they aim to strengthen the team after a heavy loss in the first Test.Key Takeaways
- Ramesh Mendis returns to strengthen the bowling attack.
- Pathum Nissanka's injury recovery boosts the batting lineup.
- Sri Lanka seeks to improve after the first Test loss.
- Fernando and Udara released to accommodate new players.
- Focus on spin-friendly conditions in Galle.
Galle, Feb 5 (NationPress) Sri Lanka has implemented significant changes to their lineup in preparation for the upcoming second Test against Australia, which is set to commence on Thursday in Galle. The off-spinning all-rounder Ramesh Mendis has been reinstated, while seamer Vishwa Fernando and top-order batter Lahiru Udara have been released from the roster.
This decision follows the struggles of Sri Lanka's bowling unit during the first Test, where they surrendered a staggering 654/6 in the opening innings, leading to a crushing defeat by an innings and 242 runs to Australia.
As reported by Daily Mirror, Mendis, who was omitted from the Test XI and subsequently the squad after a lackluster showing against New Zealand in November, has earned his place back through outstanding performances in Sri Lanka’s Major League Tournament.
The 28-year-old off-spinner has achieved 24 wickets at an average of 21.91 in the domestic league, in addition to scoring 260 runs with an average of 52. Despite a modest international record of seven wickets at 40.85 across two previous Tests against Australia (both held in Galle, 2022), Mendis is poised to be considered for the playing XI.
Mendis' reinstatement is not the only alteration, as opener Pathum Nissanka has also been brought back after missing the first Test due to injury. His return offers a vital boost to Sri Lanka's top order, which faced challenges against Australia’s potent bowling lineup.
To facilitate these adjustments, Vishwa Fernando and Lahiru Udara have been released from the team. The decision to exclude Fernando's seam bowling reflects the spin-friendly nature of the Galle pitch, while Udara's exit indicates that Sri Lanka is aiming to restructure their batting lineup with Nissanka's return.