Sri Lanka have namedtheir 16-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup in the UAE, with Wanindu Hasaranga returning after recovering from a hamstring injury. The legspinning allrounder sustained the injury during the recent series against Bangladesh and was rested for the T20I series against Zimbabwe. However, the selectors are hopeful he will be fully fit in time for the continental tournament. Hasaranga replaces Dushan Hemantha from the Zimbabwe series squad, while uncapped batter Vishen Halambage has been dropped.
The squad sees four changes from the one that lost to Bangladesh at home. Experienced batters Avishka Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Eshan Malinga have been omitted. In their place, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamil Mishara, and fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera have been included. Chameera’s presence boosts Sri Lanka’s pace attack, while seam-bowling allrounder Chamika Karunaratne also makes a comeback. Dasun Shanaka remains part of the setup, providing another seam option.
Notably, veteran Angelo Mathews is absent from the squad, indicating that selectors are unlikely to consider him for the T20 World Cup next year. Mathews had retired from Tests earlier but had kept himself available for white-ball formats.
Sri Lanka’s spin department looks strong with three quality options: Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and left-arm allrounder Dunith Wellalage. Their versatility adds balance to the squad ahead of the tournament.
Charith Asalanka will lead the side, which opens its Asia Cup campaign against Bangladesh on September 13. Sri Lanka enter the competition with recent pedigree, having reached the final in 2023 and winning the 2022 edition. The selectors will hope this blend of youth and experience can help reclaim regional dominance.
Sri Lanka Squad: Charith Asalanka (capt), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana.
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