The National Selection Committee has named an 18-member Sri Lanka squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Pakistan, scheduled to be played at the Dambulla International Cricket Stadium.
Former Sri Lanka T20I skipper Charith Asalanka has been recalled to the side after missing the previous T20I series against Pakistan due to illness. Although he was initially named in that squad, Asalanka was forced to sit out the series and now makes his return to the national setup.
Sri Lanka have also welcomed back pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana, who returns after missing recent international assignments. The slingy fast bowler comes into the series on the back of a major boost to his profile, having been snapped up by Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 18 crore (approximately Rs. 600 million) at the recently concluded IPL auction.
Another notable returnee is Dunith Wellalage, with the 22-year-old left-arm spinner back in contention after being omitted from the last T20I series against Pakistan. His all-round abilities are expected to add balance to the side.
The most surprising inclusion in the squad is Dhananjaya de Silva. Sri Lanka’s current Test captain has not featured in a T20I for over a year and has also been absent from the ODI setup since the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in India. His recall adds experience to the middle order and provides an additional spin-bowling option.
Youngster Traveen Mathew has earned his maiden national call-up following impressive performances at the recently concluded Asia Cup Rising Stars T20 Cricket Tournament. The 21-year-old mystery spinner claimed seven wickets in three matches and caught the attention of selectors with his consistency and control.
Meanwhile, wrist-spinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, along with batters Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Pavan Rathnayake, have been left out of the squad for the series.
All three matches of the T20I series will be played at the Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, with fixtures scheduled for January 7, 9 and 11.
Sri Lanka T20I Squad
- Dasun Shanaka (C)
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kusal Mendis
- Kusal Perera
- Kamil Mishara
- Charith Asalanka
- Kamindu Mendis
- Dhananjaya de Silva
- Janith Liyanage
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Dunith Wellalage
- Dushan Hemantha
- Traveen Mathew
- Dushmantha Chameera
- Nuwan Thushara
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Eshan Malinga
