Kaushal Silva likely to be dropped from the squad for the Indian Tests

The Sri Lankan selectors are expected to make a major omission from the squad as Kaushal Silva, who was a part of the team that last played against India at home. Right-handed Dhananjaya de Silva and all-rounder Dasun Shanaka are also likely to be rewarded for their recent exploits with the ‘A’ side with a place in the Test squad.

De Silva was dropped from the squad, following his poor show in the series against India, but came back stronger later for Sri Lanka ‘A’. The right-handed batsman led the side to West Indies, scoring 260 runs at an average of 52 with a century and two half-centuries in five innings, where Sri Lanka won the series 2-1.

All-rounder Dasun Shanaka too played his heart out in the ‘A’ series, where he scored a hundred and an unbeaten 60 in the second four-day game against West Indies. The all-rounder’s scorecard read 102* and 60 in the second innings of the game. The first hundred came off just 108 balls, which included eight sixes and five fours and he hit three fours and a six in the second innings.

Kusal Mendis‘ place

Mendis’ spot too looks in jeopardy after his recent form in ODIs and Tests against the fellow Asian side Pakistan. His top score was just 18 in six innings across Tests and ODIs against Pakistan, while against the Indians he scored 36, 19, 1 and 1 in four ODIs which arguably is too low a score for a primary batsman.

Meanwhile, both Asela Gunarathne and Kusal Janith Perera will not be considered for the Tests due to lack of match practice, despite passing their respective fitness tests. Former skipper Angelo Mathews will make a return to the team, as an all-rounder after deeming fit to bowl.

Probable Test Squad for India tour:

Dimuth Karunarathne, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Niroshan Dickwella, Dasun Shanaka, Dilruwan Perera, Rangana Herath, Suranga Lakmal, Lahiru Gamage, Vishwa Fernando, Lakshan Sandakan, Lahiru Thirimanne