Sri Lanka have recalled Kamindu Mendis to their 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup, which begins later this week. Dhananjaya de Silva makes way for Mendis, who was left out of the three-match series against England.
Mendis was dropped from the squad after a string of poor performances in the ILT20 and in T20Is. Overall, his T20I numbers are not very impressive, with only 540 runs from 35 T20Is at a modest strike rate of 124.71, alongside three wickets. However, with spin expected to play a big role in the tournament, the selectors have backed his ambidextrous bowling style. Add to that, he is a brilliant fielder.
With a highest score of 22 in his last three innings, Dhananjaya has been left out of the squad.
Pavan Rathnayake, who has played just four T20Is, has been trusted with a place in the squad.
Aside from Rathnayake’s inclusion, the batting line-up is largely as expected.
Eshan Malinga suffered a freak injury in the second T20I against England, which ruled him out of the final match of the series. However, his inclusion indicates that the selectors expect him to regain full fitness. Pramod Madushan is also a notable exclusion from the fast-bowling group, which will be led by Matheesha Pathirana and Dushmantha Chameera. Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage and Maheesh Theekshana form a formidable spin trio.
The Dasun Shanaka-led side will begin their campaign against Ireland at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on February 8.
Sri Lanka squad: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga
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