Chandimal out of Galle test; Herath to Captain

Sri Lanka have limited-overs captain Upul Tharanga in the side, while 39-year-old Herath also led the side last year in the absence of Mathews.

Former fast bowler Chaminda Vaas will guide the Sri Lankan pace attack for the series against India, SLC added.Reuters : Sri Lankan captain Dinesh Chandimal will miss next week’s first test against India after he was diagnosed with pneumonia, dealing a big blow to the hosts ahead of a three-test series.

The 27-year-old was named test captain earlier this month after skipper Angelo Mathews stepped down following Sri Lanka’s first one-day international series defeat to Zimbabwe.

Dinesh Chandimal (R) and Rangana Herath  - AFP 

The right-handed batsman then led Sri Lanka to a win in the one-off test against Zimbabwe, during which his team chased down their highest-ever fourth innings total.

Chandimal had contracted viral influenza and was recommended a rest period of three to five days on Thursday, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said in a statement.

“He was hospitalised this morning when increased symptoms showed a development of Pneumonia,” the board said.

“Chandimal will miss the first test against India in Galle from 26 to 30 July, and in his absence the team will be led by veteran spin master Rangana Herath.”

Indian cricket team captain ViratKohli is hit by a bouncer bowled by Sri Lanka Board President's XI cricketer Vishwa Fernando during the first day of the two-day warm-up match between Sri Lanka Board President's XI and India at the Colombo Cricket Club Stadium in Colombo on 21 July, 2017. Batting first Sri Lanka team was bowled out for 187 with  chief scorers being Gunathilaka 74, Thirimanne 59, Kuldeep 4-14. IN reply India was 135 for 3 (Rahul 54, Kohli 34*, Rahane 30*).India will play three Tests, five one-day internationals and a Twenty20 game in Sri Lanka. The first Test starts on 26 July in Galle - AFP