Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva has explained the selection of Niroshan Dickwella as wicketkeeper for the first Test against India at Galle International Cricket Stadium, scheduled for August 15-19, 2026. Dickwella, 33 years old, returns to the Test squad after an absence of more than three years, with his last appearance coming on March 9, 2023 against New Zealand. The recall comes in the absence of regular keeper Kusal Mendis, who is unavailable due to injury.
De Silva outlined the reasoning behind Dickwella's inclusion in the squad for the opening match of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship cycle. The captain emphasised that glovework was the primary consideration for the Galle venue, where wicketkeeping skills carry particular importance. Dickwella has played 96 Test innings and holds a batting average of 31 across his career.
"The only thing I have to tell Niroshan Dickwella is to keep well. That's why he's in the team." Silva was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
Why Dickwella was recalled for Galle
De Silva explained that Mendis had occupied the wicketkeeper position at number seven for several years, which limited opportunities for Dickwella's return. However, the conditions at Galle demanded a specific skill set that de Silva and the selection committee prioritised above other considerations. The decision to recall Dickwella was made in consultation with the coaching staff.
"Dickwella had to leave the Test squad over the last few years because Kusal Mendis went to No. 7, and Kusal has played well there in the last few years so Dickwella didn't get a chance to come back," Silva continued.
"But when you play at Galle, the most important thing is that the player with the best glovework plays," Silva added.
Overlooked domestic performers and the selection decision
The selection committee had considered alternative wicketkeeper-batters from the domestic competition. Both Sadeera Samarawickrama and uncapped Anjala Bandara had strong records in the 2026 domestic four-day competition, with Samarawickrama averaging 77 and Bandara averaging 61. Despite these impressive domestic performances, de Silva confirmed that Dickwella's glovework credentials proved decisive.
"The decision to recall Dickwella is one we had with the coach and selectors, and they all agreed. We did have the chance to allow another player, but as the keeper with the best glovework, Dickwella came through," Silva said.
Kumara's inclusion despite recent injury
Sri Lanka named four fast bowlers in the squad: Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka. Kumara's inclusion came despite a recent injury setback during the West Indies tour in June 2026. De Silva acknowledged the bowler's fitness concerns but stressed the limited depth in Sri Lanka's fast bowling stocks.