Introduction
India return to Test action against Sri Lanka in a two-match series beginning on August 15, 2026. The opening match will be played at the Galle International Stadium, while the second Test moves to the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. Both matches are part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
For cricket followers using Kingexch to track the series build-up, knowing the confirmed schedule, match timing, television channels, and streaming platform can make it easier to follow every session.
India vs Sri Lanka 2026 Test Schedule
The BCCI has confirmed two Tests for India’s August tour of Sri Lanka.
- First Test: August 15–19, 2026
- Venue: Galle International Stadium, Galle
- Second Test: August 23–27, 2026
- Venue: Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo
- Match start: 10:00 AM IST
Both India and Sri Lanka use the same UTC+5:30 time zone, so the scheduled 10:00 AM start applies to viewers in India as well. Current broadcast guides also list both Tests for a 10:00 AM IST start.
Where to Watch India vs Sri Lanka on TV
Indian viewers can watch the two-match Test series live on the Sony Sports Network. Coverage is expected across selected Sony Sports television channels with commentary options in multiple languages.
DD Sports is also listed as a television option for viewers using DD Free Dish.
Fans following match developments through King Exchange should check their local television provider before the first Test to confirm the exact Sony Sports channel available in their package.
How to Watch India vs Sri Lanka Live Streaming
The confirmed digital streaming platform in India is SonyLIV. Fans can use the SonyLIV app on supported mobile devices or access its service through compatible web-connected devices. Current viewing information indicates that an appropriate subscription will be required for online streaming.
The series is not scheduled for live streaming on JioHotstar, and television coverage is not on Star Sports.
Before match day, users should:
- Update the SonyLIV app
- Confirm an active subscription
- Check internet stability
- Sign in before the scheduled start
- Use an officially supported streaming source
Why the Galle Test Is Important
The first Test begins at Galle on August 15 and marks India’s return to Test cricket in Sri Lanka after a long gap. The two-match contest also contributes to the World Test Championship cycle, increasing the importance of every result.
For King Exchange 9 followers, attention is likely to focus on how India adapt to Sri Lankan conditions, particularly as the surface begins to offer more assistance to spin.
India’s Squad for the Test Series
Shubman Gill leads India, with KL Rahul serving as vice-captain. The current squad also includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Devdutt Padikkal, Sarfaraz Khan and Auqib Nabi among the available options.
India will be without Jasprit Bumrah, while Sai Sudharsan has also been replaced after failing to recover in time for the series. For viewers using Kingexch to follow team news, the final playing XI at Galle will be one of the biggest talking points before the match begins.
What Fans Should Check Before the Match
Because broadcast listings and individual subscription packages can differ, viewers should confirm access before play starts.
Check:
- Sony Sports availability on your TV package
- SonyLIV subscription status
- Match start time of 10:00 AM IST
- Internet speed for live streaming
- Latest team and weather updates
King Exchange viewers following the full Test will also want to monitor possible weather interruptions, particularly in Galle.
Conclusion
India vs Sri Lanka 2026 begins on August 15 at Galle, with the second Test starting on August 23 in Colombo. Both matches are scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM IST.
In India, Sony Sports Network will provide television coverage, while SonyLIV is the confirmed online streaming destination. DD Sports is also available through DD Free Dish.
For King Exchange 9 followers, the series offers two important Tests with World Test Championship implications and plenty of interest around India’s playing combination.
FAQs
1. When does India vs Sri Lanka 2026 start?
The first Test starts on August 15, 2026, at the Galle International Stadium.
2. What time does India vs Sri Lanka start in India?
Both Tests are currently scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM IST.
3. Where can fans watch the Test series on TV?
The series will be broadcast in India on Sony Sports Network, with DD Sports available via DD Free Dish.
4. Where can India vs Sri Lanka be streamed online?
Indian viewers can stream the Test series through SonyLIV with an applicable subscription.
