Published: Aug 02, 2016, 03:24 PM (IST)
Edited: Aug 02, 2016, 03:24 PM (IST)
Sri Lanka’s seamer Nuwan Pradeep joins the list of bowlers to sustain injury putting him doubt for the 2nd Test at Galle against Australia starting from August 8. Pradeep had been crucial for Sri Lanka in terms of fast bowlers at Pallekele Test, but unfortunately suffered hamstring injury on Monday. He will undergo a fitness Test on Wednesday before a final decision on his availability is made for the Test starting on Thursday. Suranga Lakmal, who is also yet to make full recovery from hamstring injury, leaves Sri Lanka to call two uncapped players for the 2nd Test. In contention is left-arm seamer Vishawa Fernando, who is more experienced and has played 44 First-Class matches to 19-year-old Asitha Fernando. FULL CRICKET SCORECARD: Sri Lanka vs Australia 2016, 2nd Test at Galle International Stadium, Galle
The Galle surface is expected to take few twists and turns, so Sri Lanka might use three spinners against Australia. In hindsight, Pradeep had played nine consecutive Tests in span of 11 months. He also played in ODIs at that time. If Pradeep is ruled out, Rangana Herath will be the only man in Sri Lanka, who is likely to have played more than 10 Tests. Offspinner Dilruwan Perera has played exactly 10 Tests while life-arm wristspinner Lakshan Sandakan made his debut in the previous Test.
If Sri Lanka manage to win the 2nd Test and seal the series to their name, this will be their first series victory over Australia in 17 years. Herath has already achieved 9 wickets from 1st Test and will be the key now for hosts where he has a formidable record to create. Australia coach Darren Lehmann has already mentioned the Galle pitch is likely to favour spinners and it could once again go in advantage of Sri Lanka.
