Sri Lanka’s Test squad for the second and final Test against New Zealand has undergone a change, with uncapped offspinner Nishan Peiris replacing injured seamer Vishwa Fernando. Fernando, who did not feature in the first Test, which Sri Lanka won by 63 runs, has developed a tightness in his right hamstring and will undergo rehabilitation.
Peiris, 27, has been on the fringes of the Test team for several years, having been included in the squad twice previously but never making his debut. However, with Ramesh Mendis’ performance coming under scrutiny after the first Test, Peiris may have an opportunity to break into the playing XI.
Mendis, who has been Sri Lanka’s leading spinner in recent years, took six wickets in the first Test but was criticized for his lack of control. His economy rate was the poorest of Sri Lanka’s spinners, and he often allowed New Zealand batters to score freely.
Peiris, on the other hand, has a strong first-class record, having taken 172 wickets in 41 matches at an average of 24.37. He recently represented Sri Lanka A in South Africa, where he picked up three wickets in the first unofficial Test.
If Peiris does make his Test debut, he will be tasked with providing Sri Lanka with control and wicket-taking options. The offspinner has the ability to turn the ball sharply and generate bounce, which could be effective against New Zealand’s right-handed batters.
The second Test between Sri Lanka and New Zealand will begin on Thursday, August 25, at the Galle International Stadium. Sri Lanka will be looking to secure a series victory after their impressive win in the first Test.
