In a stunning twist of fate, former captain Dasun Shanaka has been conspicuously absent from Sri Lanka’s T20I lineup for the highly anticipated bilateral showdown against the West Indies. This follows the team’s recent triumph over India, where they clinched a 2-1 victory in T20Is just this past July. With Shanaka sidelined, he joins pacer Dushmantha Chameera as the only notable exclusions from a squad that seems eager to maintain their momentum.
Amidst the reshuffling, the spotlight now shines on Bhanuka Rajapaksa. This resilient middle-order batter makes a remarkable return to the national fold for the first time since January 2023. After a prolonged hiatus, Rajapaksa, who dazzled in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and played an instrumental role in guiding Galle Marvels to the Lanka Premier League final in July, is primed for action once again.
Assuming the captaincy reins is Charith Asalanka, while Wanindu Hasaranga—who previously captained the side before stepping aside post the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024—will lead a formidable spin arsenal. This quartet features the likes of Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Dunith Wellalage, each bringing their unique flair to the game.
Vandersay, fresh from a spectacular showing in the ODI series against India in August where he achieved a career-best 33/6, is poised to make a grand return to T20I cricket after a two-year hiatus. Over his brief tenure in the format, comprising 14 matches, he has captured a mere seven wickets at an economy rate drowning in the single digits.
The pace department will be led by Matheesha Pathirana, alongside Binura Fernando and Asitha Fernando, crafting a dynamic fast-bowling trio. On the other hand, Kamindu Mendis, who has dazzled in the Test arena, is determined to replicate his stellar form in the T20 landscape.
Mark your calendars! The epic clash between Sri Lanka and the West Indies kicks off on 13 October, with additional matches on the 15th and 17th, all set in the picturesque backdrop of Dambulla, where cricketing fervor will undoubtedly run wild.
Sri Lanka Squad for the West Indies T20Is:
Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamidu Wickramasinghe, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Binura Fernando, Asitha Fernando.
