India and Sri Lanka last faced each other in a Test series, in Sri Lanka, back in 2010. In the interim, the neighbours have taken on each other in numerous one-day outings, a number of them have been inconsequential. A lot has changed since the last time these two sides met in a Test series. The Indian team has undergone a complete overhaul and will be led by the experienced yet unpredictable Virat Kohli. All other veterans except Harbhajan Singh are no longer in the reckoning. Sri Lanka too have lost a few jewels to retirement since. However, the one similarity is that, like last time, on this occasion too a Lankan legend will be quitting.
Kumar Sangakkara has unarguably been Sri Lanka's most priceless jewel over the last decade. And, what better way for him to sign off than in home conditions, against one of his favourite opponents. Sangakkara did not look in great touch in the series against Pakistan, which the hosts lost, and even decided to sit out of the final Test. He would be hopeful of putting up a better show. After all, Indian bowlers have a habit of giving aged legends fond farewells. Last time, the Indian batsmen allowed Muttiah Muralitharan to walk off on a high, as he claimed eight wickets to end his career with exactly 800 scalps.
Apart from Sangakkara, the most intriguing discussion in the build up to the Test has been the Indian think tank's affinity towards playing five bowlers. The reactions to the same have been mixed. While some cricket pundits are viewing it as a positive move, others feel there is too high a risk percentage in the same. Even if they lock in on five bowlers, a decision on the combination still needs to be taken, whether to play three pacers or three spinners. India have a number of pace options in the likes of Ishant Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umesh Yadav and Varun Aaron. But, looking at the fact that Yasir Shah troubled Lanka, India might be tempted to go in with Amit Mishra along with the regular spinners.
The Indian dilemma at the top of the order has been solved with Murali Vijay being ruled out of the opening Test, which means Shikhar Dhawan and Lokesh Rahul will open the innings for the team. But, the unavailability of Vijay is a big blow to the team since he has been the most consistent of all openers tried over the last few years. Rohit Sharma, who is slated to bat at number three, will have a big challenge to prove himself. He is yet to establish himself in the five-day game. Also, in case India decide to stick to the five-bowler theory, there would be additional pressure on Wriddhiman Saha, who is trying to fill in the boots of MS Dhoni.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, would be looking to improve on their disappointing show against Pakistan, where they lost in all formats. Angelo Mathews, who has been their most consistent batsman in recent times, will be the key with the bat. However, Lanka will need significant contributions from the rest, especially the likes of Upul Tharanga and Lahiru Thirimanne, who were extremely poor against Pakistan. Jehan Mubarak will also have a point to prove, having been retained in spite of a poor show against Pakistan. Bowling was Lanka's weak link in the previous series. Rangana Herath will have to lead the way. The likes of Dusmantha Chameera, Nuwan Pradeep and Dhammika Prasad face a tough ask.
-- By A Cricket Analyst
