Sri Lanka has made a strategic change to their cricket squad ahead of the much-anticipated three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. The adjustment comes in the form of introducing left-arm fast bowler Binura Fernando to replace the injured Dushmantha Chameera. This alteration is significant, considering Dushmantha Chameera absence due to a left quadricep injury sustained during the victorious first ODI against Afghanistan, a match where Sri Lanka emerged triumphant by 42 runs.
Binura Fernando, standing tall at 6ft 7in, brings a unique dimension to the squad, and his inclusion as a replacement reflects Sri Lanka’s commitment to maintaining a potent fast-bowling lineup. However, Fernando’s history with the national side has been marked by occasional injury setbacks, as seen in his early exit from the T20 World Cup game against Australia in October 2022 due to a hamstring injury.
Since recovering from his fitness issues, Binura Fernando has showcased his prowess in domestic T20 leagues, notably featuring for Jaffna Kings and Dambulla Aura in the Lanka Premier League and the Abu Dhabi T10. His impressive performances in these leagues have earned him the nod for the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan.
In the bowling department, Binura Fernando will join a formidable seam quartet that includes Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwan Thushara, and Matheesha Pathirana. The spin-bowling duties will be led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, with Akila Dananjaya providing backup. The squad also boasts versatile spin options in the form of ambidextrous Kamindu Mendis and offspinner Dhananjaya de Silva.
The batting unit retains a sense of familiarity, featuring prominent names such as Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya, Charith Asalanka, Angelo Mathews, and Dasun Shanaka.
Mark Your Calendars: T20I Series Schedule
The three-match T20I series is scheduled to kick off on February 17, with subsequent games set for February 19 and 21, all taking place in the picturesque setting of Dambulla.
Sri Lanka T20I Squad:
- Wanindu Hasaranga (capt)
- Charith Asalanka (vice-capt)
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kusal Mendis
- Dhananjaya de Silva
- Kusal Perera
- Angelo Mathews
- Dasun Shanaka
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Binura Fernando
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Dilshan Madushanka
- Nuwan Thushara
- Akila Dananjaya
- Kamindu Mendis
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
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