India is set to begin their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in Galle on August 15, but former Sri Lankan all-rounder Farveez Maharoof believes the visitors will have a major challenge to overcome in the form of veteran spinner Prabath Jayasuriya. Maharoof has identified Jayasuriya as Sri Lanka’s biggest threat to the Indian batting lineup.

The 34-year-old left-arm spinner has established himself as one of the hosts’ most reliable Test bowlers, claiming 125 wickets in 23 matches. With conditions in Galle traditionally favouring spin, his role could prove crucial in the series.

“The biggest challenge for Indian batters will certainly be the spinners. I certainly feel Prabath Jayasuriya will be the biggest challenge for the Indian batters. He is our main weapon, while Asitha Fernando will be important with the fast bowling,” Farveez Maharoof said.

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Jayasuriya’s record at the Galle International Stadium makes him an even bigger concern for India. Since making his Test debut at the venue against Australia in July 2022, he has featured in 11 Tests there and taken an impressive 81 wickets.

Farveez Maharoof also highlighted the impact of the wind at Galle, particularly for spinners capable of generating significant drift. He believes Jayasuriya’s understanding of the local conditions could make life difficult for India’s batters. “He knows how to bowl with the wind, and the wind is going to be a major factor in Galle because of the drift the spinners can generate,” Maharoof explained.

The former all-rounder also warned that India’s spinners will need to adapt quickly to the conditions. “It is going to be a crosswind, so the Indian spinners will have to adapt quickly to that factor. How quickly they adjust to the wind is going to be massive,” he added.

Farveez Jayasuriya has also been Sri Lanka’s leading wicket-taker in the World Test Championship, with 100 wickets from 20 matches. Interestingly, the Matale-born spinner is yet to play an international match against India.

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With the series offering Jayasuriya his first opportunity to test himself against India, Sri Lanka will hope their premier spinner can deliver another match-winning performance on home soil.