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Milan Rathnayake Ruled Out of Second Test Against Bangladesh Due to Injury
Sri Lanka Announces 18-Member Squad for Colombo Test
Colombo, June 24 – In a major setback ahead of the second Test against Bangladesh, Sri Lankan bowling all-rounder Milan Rathnayake has been ruled out due to a left side strain sustained during the first Test in Galle. The news was confirmed in a press release by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Monday, June 23, alongside the announcement of an 18-member squad for the upcoming match at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo.
The second Test is scheduled to be held from June 25 to 29, with Sri Lanka looking to maintain their momentum after a solid showing in the series opener.
Angelo Mathews Retires from Test Cricket
The second Test will also mark the beginning of a new era for Sri Lankan cricket, as veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews has retired from the Test format following the Galle match. His departure ends an illustrious career that spanned over a decade, leaving a significant void in experience and leadership.
A New Look Test Squad
Apart from Rathnayake’s injury and Mathews’ retirement, the squad remains largely unchanged from the first Test. This indicates the selectors’ commitment to backing youth and consistency. Sri Lanka continues to test depth in its domestic talent pool, giving space to young and uncapped players.
Injury Concerns and Exclusions
Milan Rathnayake’s Injury Adds to Sri Lanka’s Fast Bowling Woes
Milan Rathnayake’s exit means Sri Lanka’s pace department will now be more dependent on Asitha Fernando and Kasun Rajitha, especially in the absence of Lahiru Kumara, who has also been ruled out. Other notable exclusions include Jeffrey Vandersay, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Peiris, and Vishwa Fernando, who continue to remain out of contention.
Read: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh 1st Test Match Summary – Full Highlights
Focus on Youth: Four Uncapped Players Retained
Building the Future Core
With Lahiru Udara and Tharindu Rathnayake making their Test debuts in the first match, Sri Lanka has continued to retain four uncapped players:
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Sonal Dinusha
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Pasindu Sooriyabandara
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Pavan Rathnayake
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Isitha Wijesundara
This indicates a clear strategic shift towards long-term team building and grooming the next generation of Sri Lankan stars.
Full Sri Lanka Squad for Second Test vs Bangladesh
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Pathum Nissanka
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Oshada Fernando
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Lahiru Udara
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Dinesh Chandimal
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Dhananjaya De Silva (Captain)
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Kusal Mendis
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Kamindu Mendis
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Pasindu Sooriyabandara
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Sonal Dinusha
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Dunith Wellalage
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Pavan Rathnayake
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Prabath Jayasuriya
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Tharindu Rathnayake
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Akila Dananjaya
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Asitha Fernando
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Kasun Rajitha
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Vishwa Fernando
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Isitha Wijesundara
Match Details: Colombo Prepares for Decisive Second Test
The second Test match of the series will take place at SSC, Colombo, known for its historic significance and spin-friendly surface. Sri Lanka, with a youthful but promising squad, will aim to take control of the series, while Bangladesh looks for a strong comeback.
The match begins at 10:00 AM local time on Tuesday, June 25.
Visit Sri Lanka Cricket’s Official Website for Full Fixtures
