Gautam Gambhir is in a rich vein of form. He struck a fluent century, his third in as many matches, in the second innings to help India save the first Test.

Gambhir will have to play a watchful innings early on, and along with Sehwag give India a healthy start, on a pitch that should help the bowlers unlike the previous Test.

Image: Gautam Gambhir goes through the paces during training amid tight security on Monday

After missing out in the first innings, Tendulkar made amends in the second and proceeded to score his 43rd Test ton to help India draw the first Test.

The master batsman will hope to continue his assault on the Lankan bowlers, Muttiah Muralitharan, in particular, and help India with his contributions.

Image: Sachin Tendulkar chats with Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara and Muttiah Muralitharan on Monday

Tendulkar became the first player to score 30,000 international runs during the course of the fifth and final day of the first Test.

India coach Gary Kirsten will be counting on him to deliver again.

Image: Gary Kirsten with Sachin Tendulkar during practice

Rahul Dravid, 'The Wall' was in fluent form in the first Test and handled the swing of Chanaka Welegedara and guile of Muraltharan and Rengana Herath admirably.

With the Green Park pitch known to assist fast bowlers, Dravid's perfect technique could be crucial in negotiating the new ball.

Image: Rahul Dravid goes through the grind during practice on Monday