After a three-year absence, Chandimal has returned to the T20 team, and crucially, we have recognised the valuable contribution this seasoned batsman makes. He has been a valuable member of Sri Lanka’s team, performing admirably in test matches. What’s most satisfying about him is that he has fulfilled all of our expectations for the team. Thus, in a statement issued by Sri Lanka Cricket, Jayasuriya stated, “I think Chandimal is a player who can take on responsibility to maximise his contribution with the bat and would be an asset to the team.”
Prior to today’s pivotal match at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya acknowledged that he had anticipated one of the top three batters to play the entire innings and post a competitive score. The last game of the three-match T20I series is set for Wednesday, July 16, and the series is now level 1-1.
In addition, the head coach voiced worries over the top-order batting and underlined the importance of settling on the lineup before the 2026 T20 World Cup, which would be hosted at home alongside co-hosts India.
Dinesh Chandimal, who suggested he might be used at the vital No. 3 spot, was included as a result of this focus.
After a lengthy layoff, Avishka Fernando, the hard-hitting opener, made a much-awaited comeback. Remarkably, he and Angelo Mathews both scored two World Cup hundreds for Sri Lankan batters, including a pivotal century in the 2019 tournament when others struggled.
“Avishka is a very skilled batsman who can do it all.” His skill is beyond question. The former all-rounder said, “But the bad news is that Avishka’s failure has been mental rather than skill, and that is a problem.”
Additionally, despite winning games at the Premadasa Stadium, Dunith Wellalage has been kept under wraps and has not been given regular opportunities. The head coach clarified that the pitch’s conditions have a major impact on Wellalage’s involvement. He is still hopeful that the team is committed to improving their performance and making amends for their last loss.
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