The much-anticipated three-match T20I series between Sri Lanka and world champions Team India is set to commence on Saturday, July 27, with all games scheduled to be played in Pallekele.

Sri Lanka's squad has faced significant setbacks due to injuries, with key players Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thusara withdrawing from the series. Adding to their woes, left-arm pacer Binura Fernando will miss the opening game due to a chest infection that has required hospitalization.

Reports from Sri Lanka had indicated that Fernando was battling flu-like symptoms, making his participation in the first game doubtful. The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board has since confirmed his hospitalization and the addition of spin-bowling allrounder Ramesh Mendis as a standby player.

"Binura Fernando has been hospitalized as the player is suffering from a chest infection. Ramesh Mendis has been brought into the squad as a standby player," stated SLC.

Charith Asalanka has taken over as Sri Lanka's Twenty20 international captain, succeeding Wanindu Hasaranga, who resigned after the team's poor performance at the Twenty20 World Cup. This series indicates the beginning of a new chapter for Sri Lanka in Twenty20 internationals.

In men’s T20 internationals, India have won 19 of their 29 matches against Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan men’s cricket team has registered nine victories while one match ended without a result.