Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has unveiled its squad for the upcoming T20 International series against Zimbabwe, with a notable return of seasoned campaigner Angelo Mathews. The 36-year-old veteran, absent from Sri Lanka’s T20 setup since 2021, finds himself back in contention as the national team ramps up preparations for the T20 World Cup later in the year.
Angelo Mathews, a stalwart in Sri Lankan cricket, last featured in the T20 format back in 2021. However, his return to the squad signals the team’s strategic approach as they build a formidable lineup for the upcoming global T20 extravaganza. Mathews had experienced a similar recall during the recent ODI World Cup, proving his mettle as a valuable asset during the tournament.
Leadership Transition
Wanindu Hasaranga, the dynamic all-rounder, will take charge as Sri Lanka’s full-time captain in the T20 format. The 25-year-old, known for his exceptional skills with both bat and ball, assumes a leadership role as Sri Lanka seeks stability and strategic acumen in the shortest format. Charith Asalanka, who served as the vice-captain in the ODI side, retains his role for the T20Is.
The squad sees the return of key spinners, emphasizing Sri Lanka’s focus on spin options in the T20 format. Akila Dananjaya, with his varied spin arsenal, reenters the fold, bolstering the team’s spin resources. Kamindu Mendis, an ambidextrous all-rounder, also makes a comeback, adding versatility to the squad. With preparations intensifying for the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA, Sri Lanka is keen on solidifying its spin department.
Fitness Test for Nissanka
Pathum Nissanka’s participation in the series remains contingent on a fitness test, as the opener has been nursing an injury. The squad includes Nuwan Thushara, who has showcased significant progress in domestic cricket and earned recognition in franchise leagues, securing a spot with the Mumbai Indians in the 2024 IPL Auction.
As Sri Lanka aims to fine-tune its T20 combination, the series against Zimbabwe serves as a crucial platform for assessing player form and strategizing ahead of the global T20 spectacle. The team’s performance in the upcoming series will be closely monitored, providing insights into the squad’s readiness for the challenges that lie ahead.
Sri Lanka Squad for T20 Series Against Zimbabwe: Wanindu Hasaranga(c), Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kusal Janith Perera, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka. Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Pathum Nissanka – subject to fitness, Maheesh Theekshana. Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Akila Dananjaya
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