Angelo Mathews, an all-rounder and veteran of Sri Lanka, is ready to return to the T20I format following a three-year absence.
The 16-strong Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) squad for the impending Twenty20 International series against Zimbabwe is noteworthy. In addition to Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Perera, who were left off of the roster for the current ODI series against the Chevrons at home, have been added.
In addition, all-rounder Kamindu Mendis, spinner Akila Dananjaya, and round-arm seamer Nuwan Thushara are chosen in the T20I team for the home series. Remarkably, experienced leg spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, who will captain Sri Lanka, is making his comeback after suffering a series of injuries. This will be his first task as the pack leader for his country. Furthermore, as a slot on the side is still open, Dasun Shanaka, the former captain, might also be chosen.
This is to call attention to two prominent figures who are not included in the T20I squad: Nuwanidu Fernando and Janith Liyanage, the new batting wonders who recently shone for Sri Lanka in the recently finished ODI match against Zimbabwe,. Additionally, the first player, Avishka Fernando, is left off the roster. Additionally, along with leggie Jeffrey Vandersay and pacer Pramod Madushan, top spin all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, who had some strong outings during the Asia Cup last year, has been left off the squad.
Despite being included in the squad, batter Pathum Nissanka’s availability for the home series will depend on his fitness level. The child has been receiving treatment at a hospital after receiving a dengue diagnosis last week.
To get ready for the 2024 T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka will play a home T20I series against Zimbabwe.
Speaking of Sri Lanka’s fortunes, the last few months have been extremely difficult due to a great deal of political unrest and corruption that have shaken the SLC, the country’s highest authority. The island nation has suffered greatly as a result, especially in cricket. The team reorganization that has been occurring ahead of the highly anticipated T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in the United States and the West Indies later this year, is a result of the recent administration shift brought about by this.
It’s important to remember that Zimbabwe vs. Sri Lanka in the Twenty20 International series serves as the exhibition match before the big game. For the three-game T20I series, the Lankan Lions and the Chevrons will square off at Kettarma. It is noteworthy that these three games are scheduled for January 14, 16, and 18, respectively. Wanindu Hasaranga and company will therefore be hoping to assemble the ideal squad before departing for the World Cup. The island nation played just seven matches in the previous year, to speak of the shortest format.
Sri Lanka’s Twenty20 international team:
Wanindu Hasaranga (C), Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kusal Perera, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Akila Dananjaya.
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