(Source X)
Sri Lanka unveiled their 16-member squad on Tuesday for the upcoming T20I series against reigning champions India. Charith Asalanka has been appointed as the new captain, taking over from Wanindu Hasaranga, who resigned following Sri Lanka’s disappointing performance in the recent T20 World Cup.
The series against India will feature six white-ball matches, commencing with a three-match T20I series starting on July 27. Sri Lanka will host the matches.
Sri Lanka’s disappointing World Cup campaign saw them bow out in the initial stage after securing just one victory in their four Group D encounters, which included matches against South Africa, Bangladesh, Netherlands, and Nepal. Their solitary win came against the Netherlands, and one match was abandoned due to rain.
Following the tournament, allrounder Hasaranga made the decision to step down as captain, stating it was in the best interests of the team. The upcoming series against India marks Sri Lanka’s first assignment since the World Cup.
Experienced players Angelo Mathews and Dhananjaya de Silva, both part of the World Cup squad, have been omitted from the T20I squad. Meanwhile, the likes of Dinesh Chandimal and Kusal Janith Perera have been included after being recalled.
The T20I series is scheduled for July 27, July 28, and July 30 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. This will be followed by an ODI series, with all three matches set to take place at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Sanath Jayasuriya was appointed as the interim coach for the tour after Chris Silverwood resigned earlier.
“Sanath with his wealth of international cricketing experience is well positioned to guide the national team, until we find a permanent solution.” SLC chief executive Ashley de Silva had said.
Jayasuriya is widely recognized as one of the cricketing legends, celebrated for his dynamic and aggressive batting style.
Sri Lanka T20I Squad: Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Janith Perera, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis. Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando
