Sri Lanka’s T20I squad for the upcoming home series against Zimbabwe has been unveiled, featuring the return of seasoned campaigner Angelo Mathews.
The announcement comes as Sri Lanka gear up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, making Mathews’ experience a valuable asset to the team. Wanindu Hasaranga is set to lead the T20I squad for the first time, adding a fresh dynamic to the team’s leadership.
Mathews, who last participated in a T20I match in 2021, was brought in as a replacement for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. His inclusion strengthens Sri Lanka’s batting lineup, alongside vice-captain Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and the potentially fit Pathum Nissanka.
The squad boasts a wealth of all-rounders, with Dhananjaya de Silva and Mathews complemented by Dasun Shanaka, Hasaranga, and Kamindu Mendis.
The pace attack will be spearheaded by Dilshan Madushanka and Dushmantha Chameera, supported by the exciting talents of Nuwan Thushara and Matheesha Pathirana.
Hasaranga will be joined by Maheesh Theekshana and Akila Dananjaya, both of whom, like Mathews, have not featured in a T20I since 2021. This diverse blend of experienced players and emerging talents underlines Sri Lanka’s commitment to building a well-rounded squad for the upcoming challenges.
The three-match series is scheduled to kick off on January 14, with all games taking place in Colombo. Sri Lanka’s T20I squad, led by Hasaranga, includes Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kusal Janith Perera, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, and Pathum Nissanka (pending fitness). The pace attack will feature Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, and Nuwan Thushara. The spin department will be managed by Maheesh Theekshana and Akila Dananjaya.
The announcement has generated excitement among cricket enthusiasts as Sri Lanka aim to fine-tune its squad and strategies ahead of the T20 World Cup.
