India vs Sri Lanka Tests: Visitors brave the heat in Colombo nets ahead of 2nd Test
The Indian cricket team is preparing for the second Test match against Sri Lanka in Colombo amidst extreme heat conditions. Coach Gautam Gambhir and the selection team are evaluating the squad, with potential adjustments to the lineup to counter the Sri Lankan batting order.
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International cricket matches are significant cultural and sporting events that draw large audiences and reflect the competitive landscape of the sport.
Surrounded by expansive trees and skyscrapers, the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Ground was like a sauna on Friday (August 21, 2026). A maximum of 30 degrees Celsius belied the actual heat felt on the premises, and in this cauldron, the Indian team practised as part of the build-up towards the second Test commencing on Sunday (August 23).
K.L. Rahul and Kuldeep Yadav skipped the pre-game drills, and spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule clarified that the duo were resting. The others did their batting and bowling stints while coach Gautam Gambhir and chief-selector Ajit Agarkar watched. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Devdutt Padikkal, Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill constituted the first quartet that batted.
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