Sri Lanka have made key changes to their squad for the second and final Test against Australia at the Galle International Stadium, with spinner Ramesh Mendis recalled to strengthen their spin attack. Team manager Mahinda Halangoda confirmed the inclusion of Mendis on Wednesday, as the hosts look to recover from a heavy defeat in the first Test.
Sri Lanka suffered their worst Test loss in history in the opening match, losing by an innings and 242 runs after trailing by 654 runs at the end of the first innings. The team relied on two relatively inexperienced spinners, which proved costly against the dominant Australian side. With the series at stake, the selectors have opted for changes, releasing seamer Vishwa Fernando and top-order batter Lahiru Udara from the 18-member squad.
ALSO READ
Mendis, an all-rounder with 15 Test caps, brings experience and balance to the Sri Lankan side. He was initially left out of the squad following a disappointing performance against New Zealand last year. However, his recent form in the ongoing first-class Major League Tournament has earned him a recall. In domestic red-ball cricket, Mendis has been in fine touch, picking up 24 wickets at an average of 21.91 and scoring 260 runs at an average of 52 across six innings.
His Test record includes modest performances against Australia, where he has claimed seven wickets at an average of 40.85 from two matches played in Galle in 2022. Despite this, his selection is a tactical decision to add experience to Sri Lanka’s spin department, which struggled in the first Test. As the team aims to avoid a 2-0 series whitewash, Mendis is expected to be in contention for a spot in the playing XI.
The second Test between Sri Lanka and Australia is scheduled to begin on February 6, Thursday.
Get every cricket update! Follow us on
