Dickwella recalled to Sri Lanka Test squad; Keshara Nuwantha earns maiden call-up

Niroshan Dickwella was recalled to Sri Lanka’s red-ball squad and off-spinner Keshara Nuwantha received his first national call-up in Galle on August 13, 2026, after selectors named a 16-member side for the first Test against India. The selection was announced ahead of the match scheduled to begin here on Saturday.

Dickwella, who last played a Test against New Zealand in 2023, is in line to make his return to the format after regular wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis was ruled out with an injury. Besides Nuwantha, uncapped batter Pasindu Sooriyabandara and left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka were included in the squad. The panel named four specialist fast bowlers among the 16 players.

Dilshan Madushanka's inclusion adds further variety to the pace unit. The pace attack also comprises Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara and Vishwa Fernando. All-rounder Milan Rathnayake provides an additional seam-bowling option for the hosts.

Keshara Nuwantha could make his Test debut after building an impressive record in domestic cricket. The right-arm off-spinner joins left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya and Ramesh Mendis in the spin department. Nuwantha earned his maiden call-up as part of the 16-player group named for the opening match.

The squad contains experienced all-rounders Kamindu Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva. Dhananjaya De Silva leads the side while Kamindu Mendis will serve as his deputy. The selection balances batting and bowling options across the XI.

Sri Lanka squad for First Test against India: Dhananjaya De Silva (c), Lahiru Udana, Nishan Madushka, Kamindu Mendis (v-c), Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru kumara, Vishwa Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.

The first Test begins here on Saturday.