India Arrives in Colombo for Second Test Against Sri Lanka
Before the second and last Test of the two-match series against Sri Lanka, the Indian cricket squad has travelled to Colombo. The game is slated to begin on Sunday, August 23, and go through August 27 at the capital city’s Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Ground.
With a 1-0 series lead, the Indians arrived in Colombo. From August 15 to August 19, 2026, they won the first Test in Galle by a margin of 165 runs. As the series’ Test captain, Shubman Gill is heading the team. India would win the series with a victory or a tie in Colombo.
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Thank you, Galle 👋
Hello again, Colombo! 🙌#TeamIndia | #SLvIND pic.twitter.com/R5hanBlw9m
— BCCI (@BCCI) August 20, 2026
Ind ultimate selection for the second Test is likely to be influenced by the SSC Ground’s tradition of providing support to spinners as the game goes on. When deciding on their starting lineup, India’s team management will keep in mind that the SSC’s pitch conditions have historically rewarded teams with a potent spin assault.
Which Indian players are not allowed to play in the series?
Prior to this series, Ind had to deal with two major injury setbacks. Their most seasoned pace bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, was sidelined for both Test matches due to a left knee injury. As Bumrah’s replacement, Auqib Nabi was drafted into the team, providing the young bowler with a chance to establish himself at this level.
A toe ailment also prevented Sai Sudharsan from playing in the series, which further limited the batting choices available to the team management. The available batting group ahead of the Colombo Test has changed due to his absence.
Positively, Ravindra Jadeja made a comeback to the Test team for the series, contributing his all-around balance and expertise. At the SSC Ground, where the surface is anticipated to support spin bowling as the match goes on, Jadeja’s presence is especially important.
At the SSC Ground, who could improve India’s batting order?
Since Sai Sudharsan isn’t available, the focus has shifted to who will bat in the middle order. Devdutt Padikkal, who struck 167 in the first innings and 44 in the second, made a compelling case for himself with his game-winning century in the series opener. His form has given the team management confidence ahead of the series finale, and he is scheduled to bat third for India at the SSC Ground in Colombo.
At the time of writing, the precise makeup of India’s starting lineup for the second Test was unknown. The team management will carefully consider their options, especially in light of the SSC pitch’s spin-friendliness. India will be eager to finish the series on Sri Lankan soil, and the lineup they choose will take into account the available circumstances as well as the players available following the two pre-series injuries.
