Nissanka likely to miss first Test against Australia

Star Sri Lanka batter Pathum Nissanka is likely to miss the two-match Test series at home against Australia, which is scheduled to start from January 29 at Galle as he is still recovering from his groin injury.

Nissanka suffered a groin injury during the third and final T20I of the series against New Zealand. The opener is currently in Colombo where he is undergoing rehabilitation for his injury.

But, the team management is confident that the right-hand batter will join the national team for the second Test which will be also played at Galle from February 6.

In the absence of Nissanka, there are three options for the hosts - Oshada Fernando, uncapped Lahiru Udara and wicket-keeper batter Sadeera Samarawickrama - who can open with left-hand batter Dimuth Karunaratne.

Sri Lanka currently lies fifth in the World Test Championship points table, one spot ahead of England and could leapfrog New Zealand and potentially even India should they enjoy a successful series. (Agencies)