The new cycle in the World Test Championship 2025/27 starts with Sri Lanka taking on Bangladesh. Both nations are playing a two-match Test series in Sri Lanka. Even though the first game finished in a draw, Angelo Mathews bids goodbye to the game’s longest format. The toss was won by Bangladesh. In the first innings, Bangladesh batters put on 495 as Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim both scored centuries. For Lanka’s side, Pathum Nissanka scored a century.
Najmul Hossain Shanto placed Bangladesh in a strong position to win the match with a century in the second innings. However, Sri Lanka put in a good effort to draw the test. Both sides will want to win the second and final test of the series, which is going to start on June 25. With Angelo Mathews retired, Sri Lanka will make changes for the second Test. Hence, on that note, we predict Sri Lanka’s Playing XI for their 2nd Test against Bangladesh.
Top Order:

Pathum Nissanka and Lahiru Udara will again open the batting attack for Lanka in the second Test match against Bangladesh. Pathum Nissanka will again look to give a good start to the team. In the first Test, he scored 187 runs. While Lahiru Udara had to go back to the pavilion earlier will look to get runs in the second Test match. Dinesh Chandimal will come to bat at no.3. In the last game, he scored only fifty in the first innings and second innings, he got out on 9 runs. In the upcoming game, he will look to get more runs.
Middle Order:

With Angelo Mathews gone, Sri Lanka now has two strong pillars in the middle order. Kamindu Mendis and the captain of the team, Dhanajaya de Silva, will control the batting. Both players have good experience and can play big innings. Oshada Fernandocan come in place of Angelo Mathews for the second Test.
Lower-Middle Order:

Kusal Mendis and Milan Rathnayake can give good support to the batting order. Coming to bat late in the order, Kusal Mendis’s batting gives the team good depth. While Rathnayake can stand at the crease for some time and get runs.
Lower Order:

With the new ball in hand, Asitha Fernando will start the attack for Lanka. In the last game, he picked up four wickets in the first innings. Tharindu Rathnayake will share the new ball with him. The spinner did a good job with the ball in 1st test as he picked up six wickets in the match. Prabath Jayasuriya will give them support.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.