Overview
- The two-Test series opens in Galle on Saturday, Aug 15, with the second Test at Colombo's SSC starting on Aug 23; both teams finalised 16‑man squads ahead of the first match.
- Sarfaraz Khan was added to India's squad as Sai Sudharsan's injury replacement and his arrival has created a public contest for a middle‑order spot with Dhruv Jurel.
- India enter the tour short of key players including Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar and Sai Sudharsan which has altered their bowling and batting balance.
- Captain Shubman Gill led specialised practice that used semi‑old balls and a worn net wicket to prepare batters for reverse swing and heavy spin expected at Galle.
- Sri Lanka named a spin‑heavy XI that recalls Niroshan Dickwella and relies on Prabath Jayasuriya and Ramesh Mendis, while commentators have promoted uncapped pacer Gurnoor Brar as a potential X‑factor for India.