India win toss and opt to bat first against Sri Lanka [Source: AFP]The stage is set for the 1st Test between India and Sri Lanka, with the two sides beginning their two-match series at the Galle International Stadium in Galle on Saturday, August 15. Moreover, the series is part of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC 2025-27 cycle), making the contest even more important for both teams. Ahead of the series, led by Shubman Gill, India played a 3-day practice match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI and secured a convincing victory. As a result, the visitors will be confident heading into the first Test.Meanwhile, Dhananjaya De Silva's Sri Lanka will also look to make the most of their home conditions. However, facing a strong Indian side will be a challenging task for the hosts. Nevertheless, they will aim to put up a strong fight.India vs Sri Lanka Toss UpdateShubman Gill won the toss and elected to bat first against Sri Lanka in the opening Test at Galle.It is important to note that India have opted for the same combination of five bowlers. However, there are two changes from their last Test against Afghanistan. Devdutt Padikkal has replaced the injured Sai Sudharsan, while Ravindra Jadeja has come in for the injured Washington Sundar.Meanwhile, India have once again left Sarfaraz Khan out of Playing XI, despite him being named as Sudharsan’s replacement for the series. Despite enjoying a strong domestic season, Sarfaraz has missed out on a place in the team.Talking about the Sri Lankan side, Nishan Madushka has come in for Pathum Nissanka. Meanwhile, Niroshan Dickwella will take up the wicketkeeping duties, while Keshara will make his Test debut today.Also Read: From Underdogs To Test Giants: How India Became A Top-Two Test TeamIndia Vs Sri Lanka 1st Test Playing XIsIndia (Playing XI): Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill(c), Devdutt Padikkal, Rishabh Pant(w), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh KrishnaSri Lanka (Playing XI): Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva(c), Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella(w), Keshara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha FernandoIndia Vs Sri Lanka 1st Test: What Do Captains Say?Dhananjaya de Silva (Sri Lanka Captain): Yeah, it (pitch) looks good. I was hoping to bat as well. It's quite dry as well. Nishan Madushka comes in for Pathum Nissanka and Niroshan Dickwella will be keeping, and Keshara will be debuting today. Two fast bowlers, two spinners, and two all-rounders, including me and Sonal Dinusha. [50th Test match in Galle] To be part of this Test match, it's an iconic ground, and yeah, I'm very happy to play this match as well.Shubman Gill (India Captain): We're gonna bat first, looks like a good wicket and the weather also looks good, so hopefully it's gonna be a good day of cricket for us. We've gone with the same playing XI that we played the last match. We've got five bowlers, two fast bowlers and three spinners. Very big honor for me, every time you get an opportunity to lead your country, and even more so special on this occasion. Independence Day for us and 600th Test match, so looking forward.Also Read: Belfast Pitch Report, Weather Report For IRE vs AFG 5th ODI, Afghanistan Tour Of Ireland 2026
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