Key facts
- Two-Test series starts August 15 in Sri Lanka
- First Test in Galle, second Test in Colombo
- India's first Test tour of Sri Lanka since Kohli's 3-0 sweep
- Series forms part of the World Test Championship cycle
India will tour Sri Lanka for a two-Test series beginning August 15, with Galle and Colombo confirmed as the host venues. Sri Lanka's cricket board announced the full schedule, setting the stage for the two sides to renew their Test rivalry on the island for the first time since Virat Kohli led India to a comprehensive 3-0 series victory there.
The first Test is scheduled to be played in Galle, the iconic venue known for its spin-friendly conditions, before the series moves to Colombo for the second and final match. The announcement puts the series firmly on the cricketing calendar as one of the key contests of the mid-year international schedule.
India's return to Sri Lanka for Tests carries significant weight given the history between the sides. The last tour under Kohli saw India win all three matches decisively, and the hosts will be eager to put up a far stronger showing on home turf this time around. Sri Lanka have shown in recent years that they can be a formidable side in their own conditions, especially at Galle where spin plays a decisive role.
With both nations also mindful of World Test Championship points, the series carries implications beyond national pride. Indian fans and selectors alike will be watching closely to see how the squad shapes up ahead of what promises to be a busy international schedule in the months that follow.