Sri Lanka Cricket Squad Announced for ODI Series against Afghanistan
The Sri Lanka Cricket Selection Committee has finalized a 16-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan. The three-match series is set to commence on June 2, 2023, at the MRICS in Hambantota.
Sri Lankan side will be the all-rounder Dasun Shanaka, who has been appointed as the team's captain.
The squad features a mix of experienced players and promising talents. Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, and Kusal Mendis have been included to the batting lineup. Mendis, who will also serve as the vice-captainIn this match. Sadeera Samarawickrama has been selected as the backup wicket-keeper, providing valuable support to Kusal Mendis behind the stumps.
The squad also includes all-rounders Chamika Karunaratne and Dushan Hemantha, who will contribute with both bat and ball. Wanindu Hasaranga, known for his leg-spin bowling and explosive batting, is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a foot injury. Once he is cleared to play.
Maheesh Theekshana, spin bowler, has also made it to the squad.
It's worth noting that Kusal Janith Perera, a key player for Sri Lanka, was not selected due to ongoing rehabilitation for a hamstring injury sustained during the team's tour of New Zealand. The selection committee deemed it necessary to give him adequate time to recover and regain full fitness before his return to international cricket.
The squad announcement is subject to approval from the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs. Once the approval is received, the team will begin their preparations for the series, aiming to secure a convincing victory against a competitive Afghan side.
Cricket enthusiasts and fans of both teams eagerly anticipate the thrilling clash between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. The ODI series promises to showcase exciting cricketing action and provide a platform for emerging talents to shine on the international stage.
Sri Lanka Squad
1) Dasun Shanaka - Captain
2) Pathum Nissanka
3) Dimuth Karunaratne
4) Kusal Mendis (WK) – Vice Captain
5) Angelo Mathews
6) Charith Asalanka
7) Dhananjaya De Silva
8) Sadeera Samarawickrama – (WK)
9) Chamika Karunaratne
10) Dushan Hemantha
11) Wanindu Hasaranga
12) Lahiru Kumara
13) Dushmantha Chameera
14) Kasun Rajitha
15) Matheesha Pathirana
16) Maheesh Theekshana
