Colombo Weather Report: Will Rain Play Spoilsport In IND Vs SL 2nd Test?

India will look to seal the Test series when they face Sri Lanka in the second and final match at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, starting Sunday, August 23. However, weather could prove to be a major factor, with rain threatening to disrupt proceedings throughout the five-day contest.

Shubman Gill's India enter the second Test with a 1-0 lead after a commanding 165-run victory in Galle. The visitors' success was built around Devdutt Padikkal's maiden Test century and Manav Suthar's impressive 10-wicket haul on debut in the country.

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, have little margin for error. The hosts need a victory in Colombo to level the series after being bowled out for 284 and 206 in Galle while chasing a daunting target of 372.

Colombo Weather Forecast For IND Vs SL 2nd Test

The biggest concern heading into the match is the weather. Colombo is currently experiencing its southwest monsoon season, with August typically bringing frequent spells of rain. Forecasts indicate a significant possibility of showers on each of the five days.

Day 1 — August 23: 30°C, 60% chance of rain

Day 2 — August 24: 30°C, 50% chance of rain

Day 3 — August 25: 31°C, 60% chance of rain

Day 4 — August 26: 30°C, 50% chance of rain

Day 5 — August 27: 30°C, 60% chance of rain

While the numbers suggest a persistent threat, the forecast does not necessarily point towards complete washouts. Scattered showers and afternoon thunderstorms are more likely, meaning interruptions and delays could be a bigger concern than entire days being lost.

Will Rain Affect The Test?

With the probability of rain remaining between 50 and 60 per cent on every day, both teams will have to be prepared for an stop-start contest.

Any significant loss of playing time could particularly hurt Sri Lanka, who need a win to keep the series alive. India, on the other hand, can afford a draw and will therefore have less pressure if the weather prevents a full match from being played.

Humidity is another factor to watch. Conditions are expected to remain around 80 per cent humidity, combined with temperatures close to 30°C. The combination could make the conditions physically demanding for players over five days.

India will also be mindful of managing their players after KL Rahul suffered cramps and had to retire hurt during the Galle Test.