Kirsten looks to build on positives after defeat in Galle
Sri Lanka head coach shares thoughts on his side's plan going forward following the first Test loss.
Following their 165-run loss in the first Test in Galle in the ICC World Test Championship series against India, Sri Lanka find themselves needing to bounce back in the second Test to level the series with India.
The daunting task will also have to be done without the play and direction of some big names.
"Kusal Mendis has got a proper hamstring injury. He's not going to be available for a while. Pathum Nissanka as well, and Dinesh (Chandimal) are also not available for the next Test," Kirsten stated in his post-match press conference.
However, he added, there's a silver lining for Sri Lanka ahead of the series decider.
"So, we're missing a few guys from that perspective, but it creates a great opportunity for young players to come in and stake their claim.
"In fact, players that have got really good first-class records in this country. So it's a good opportunity for them."
Sonal Dinusha (84) led his side's batting efforts in the second innings, following a century in the first, and continues to set an example, earning praise from his head coach.
"His love for Test cricket and playing that way is particularly pleasing to me to watch, and we certainly would encourage all our players to have that Test match mindset and attitude.
"I think the challenge for the modern players, especially in Sri Lanka, is that you don't play much Test cricket. At least now, we've got another six matches to go within the next six months or so.
"So it's great to get into the Test match game a little bit and then to understand how to score runs and bat for long periods of time and have an influence on a game over a long period of time."
There are points to build on for Sri Lanka, as even after promising play and a valiant comeback effort across the five days, India were able to stay in control and secure the win by 165 runs.
Devdutt Padikkal was in top-form throughout the Test, scoring 211 runs in the two innings, including a 167 in the first innings that helped India set the tone in the first innings.
The game-changing effort won praise from Kirsten, who acknowledged the batter's composure.
"I think India did really well in their first innings. Devdutt Padikkal played one of the better Test match innings that I've seen.
"He didn't play too aggressively, but just played within himself and just batted for a long period and was a good lesson for any Test match batter."
The second Test begins on Sunday, 23rd August at the Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground in Colombo.