Sri Lanka suffered a major setback during the first Test against India in Galle on August 18, 2026, when experienced batter Dinesh Chandimal suffered an injury while fielding.
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Chandimal injured his right shoulder and neck while attempting to stop a boundary during India’s second innings. He landed awkwardly after diving and immediately appeared to be in discomfort. He was assessed by the team’s medical staff before being taken to hospital for precautionary scans.
According to Sri Lanka Cricket, the scan showed no signs of internal injury. However, after further concussion assessment by the team doctor and physiotherapist, Chandimal was ruled out of the remainder of the Test due to concussion. Pasindu Sooriyabandara was approved as his concussion replacement.
The injury is a significant blow for Sri Lanka, particularly because Chandimal is one of the team’s experienced Test batters.