Sri Lanka was humiliated by India at Mohali, losing by an innings and 222 runs. They will be looking for a better performance in the series’ second and final Test, which will be contested with the pink ball under the lights in Bengaluru. However, the team has been handed a blow ahead of the Test match, as batter Pathum Nissanka is allegedly hurt and may miss the game.
Nissanka was one of Sri Lanka’s few bright spots in Mohali, striking a valiant half-century in the opening innings. He scored 61 runs off 133 deliveries and was knocked out for 174 runs in 65 overs. With Nissanka occupying a vital third position, it remains to be seen who would take his place in the line-up if he is ruled out.
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed the development, noting that the 23-year-old has worsened an existing back issue and his condition is currently being watched. “Pathum is experiencing back pain as a result of one of his prior injuries; we will monitor his condition but he is unlikely to play,” the official told CricWire.