Dickwella returns to Sri Lanka Test squad; Nuwantha gets maiden call-up

Wicketkeeper-batter Niroshan Dickwella returned to Sri Lanka’s red-ball set up after three years, while off-spinner Keshara Nuwantha earned his maiden call-up as the hosts named a 16-member squad for first Test against India. 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 have also been included in the squad, which features four specialist fast bowlers.

Madushanka’s return adds further variety to Sri Lanka’s pace attack, which also comprises Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara and Vishwa Fernando. All-rounder Milan Rathnayake provides another seam-bowling option.

Nuwantha, meanwhile, 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.

The squad also includes experienced all-rounders Kamindu Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva.

Dhananjaya De Silva leads the side while Kamindu Mendis will serve as his deputy.

The first Test against India begins here on Saturday.

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.