India's Likely Playing XI for Sri Lanka Test: Check Predicted 11 for IND vs SL Cricket Match in Colombo

Following a dominant 165-run victory in the opening Test at Galle, India head into the second and final Test against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo aiming to wrap up a clean sweep in the two-match series. The fixture, beginning on 23 August 2026, forms a critical part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle. Colombo Weather Forecast and Rain Chances for India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test 2026.

The Indian team management, led by captain Shubman Gill, is expected to maintain stability in the lineup after a thoroughly cohesive performance across both departments in the series opener.

Top Order: Proven Stability and Recent Form

The opening partnership remains firmly settled, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul set to resume their roles at the top of the order. Rahul provided a solid platform in Galle with a composed 82 in the first innings, complementing Jaiswal's aggressive stroke play against the new ball.

At number three, Devdutt Padikkal has cemented his position after producing a match-defining 167 in the first Test. His fluency against spin bowling on subcontinental tracks makes him an essential anchor ahead of captain Shubman Gill at number four.

Middle Order and Wicketkeeping Dynamics

The middle order features vice-captain Rishabh Pant at number five, who contributed a brisk 66 in the second innings at Galle, alongside his sharp glovework.

Veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja occupies the number six slot, providing invaluable lower-order balance and tactical spin support. Dhruv Jurel is anticipated to retain his place at number seven as a specialist middle-order batter following his half-century in the previous match.

Bowling Attack: Spin Trio to Lead the Charge

Given the typical characteristics of the SSC pitch in Colombo, which tends to offer turn as the match progresses, India are poised to retain their three-pronged spin attack:

• Manav Suthar: The breakout left-arm spinner is virtually guaranteed a place after claiming a 10-wicket match haul (4/76 and 6/55) on his outing in Galle.

• Kuldeep Yadav/Saransh Jain & Ravindra Jadeja: The wrist-spin and left-arm orthodox combination provides varied angles and control through the middle sessions.However, Yadav's poor showing at Galle, and all -left-handed spin-bowling line-up, might tempt management to rope in off-spinner Saransh Jain. 

• Pace Reserves: Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna will shoulder the fast-bowling duties, utilising reverse swing and seam movement with the red ball.

India Predicted Playing XI for Colombo Test

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal (Batter)

2. KL Rahul (Batter)

3. Devdutt Padikkal (Batter)

4. Shubman Gill (Captain / Batter)

5. Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper / Batter)

6. Ravindra Jadeja (All-rounder)

7. Dhruv Jurel (Batter)

8. Kuldeep Yadav/Saransh Jain (Left-arm Wrist Spinner)

9. Manav Suthar (Left-arm Spinner)

10. Mohammed Siraj (Right-arm Fast Bowler)

11. Prasidh Krishna (Right-arm Fast Bowler)

Match Details & Where to Watch

The second Test match is scheduled from August 23 to 27, 2026, with play commencing at 10:00 AM IST (Indian Standard Time) daily. Sri Lanka Adds Kamil Mishara and Sahan Arachchige for 2nd Test Against India.

Key Details:

• Match: 2nd Test, India Tour of Sri Lanka 2026
• Teams: India vs Sri Lanka
• Venue: Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC), Colombo
• Date: August 23-27, 2026
• Start Time: 10:00 AM IST (04:30 AM GMT, 05:30 AM BST, 12:30 AM ET, 02:30 PM AEST)
• Competition: ICC World Test Championship 2025-2027

India's robust performance in the first Test sets a high bar for the series finale. With a few tactical changes and the inclusion of a promising debutant, the visitors will be keen to maintain their winning streak and bolster their World Test Championship campaign. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will fight hard to salvage pride in front of their home crowd.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 22, 2026 12:56 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).