The pitch preparations at the Galle International Stadium drew attention ahead of the upcoming India-Sri Lanka Test series. Hours after Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak inspected the 22-yard strip, the groundstaff brought out a lawn mower.
The first Test between India and Sri Lanka will begin at Galle on Saturday, August 15. Notably, the pitch could influence the final team combinations, with both sides expected to closely assess the surface before the series opener. India have remained unbeaten against Sri Lanka in Tests since 2015.
Galle Pitch Draws Attention After Gautam Gambhir and Sitanshu Kotak's Visit
Sri Lanka held a closed-door practice session on Wednesday, keeping the Galle International Stadium off-limits to the public and media. During the session, Gautam Gambhir and Sitanshu Kotak arrived to inspect the pitch. Groundstaff briefly removed the covers before putting them back.
Less than two hours after Gautam Gambhir and Sitanshu Kotak left, the main cover came off again and a grass mower moved onto the pitch. Groundstaff made several passes across the 22-yard strip before using a soft roller. They then left the surface in the sun for a while before covering it.
The Indian management is also keeping a close eye on the weather. Notably, the team has experienced short but heavy spells of rain since arriving at their sea-facing resort. Wednesday was clearer, but the forecast still points to more rain in Galle during the week.
India Face Selection Dilemma Ahead of Sri Lanka Test
The pitch could have a direct impact on India's bowling combination. Notably, the team can choose between three frontline seamers and three specialist spinners, with the management keen to assess the Day 1 surface before making the final call.
If the Galle pitch does not offer much turn, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar could form the pace attack. India do not have Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar or Nitish Kumar Reddy available, leaving fewer options for balance. Kuldeep Yadav could play a key role in the attack.
India did not train on August 11 and 12 but will return to the Galle ground on Thursday at 10 AM. The team completed three high-intensity training sessions in Colombo and also played a three-day warm-up match at the NCC Ground.
Gautam Gambhir Under Pressure Ahead of Sri Lanka Tests
India completed a useful week of preparation with the match simulation at the NCC Ground. However, pressure remains on Gautam Gambhir after a difficult run since he took charge. India have lost home Test series against New Zealand and South Africa during his tenure and have won only eight of 20 Tests.
The pressure increased after India's poor white-ball results in Ireland and England. India won only one of their 10 matches across those two tours, adding to concerns over the team's recent performances.
India also need a strong result in Sri Lanka to strengthen their position in the World Test Championship. The two-match series begins at the Galle International Stadium on Saturday, August 15. India have not lost a Test to Sri Lanka since 2015 and have won 10 of their last 12 matches against them.
Also read: Sri Lanka announce squad for 1st Test against India; Kasun Rajitha and Isitha Wijesundara dropped
