Sri Lanka announce squad for T20I series against West Indies

Sri Lanka Cricket has announced a 17-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against West Indies slated to take place from 13th October 2024 in Dambulla. The next two T20Is are scheduled to be played on the 15th and 17th of October, respectively, and will be followed by a three-match ODI series.

The match would mark Sanath Jayasuriya’s first games as the newly appointed permanent coach of Sri Lanka. The T20I series, scheduled to be played at the Dambulla International Stadium, would be his first set of games for the team. The 55-year-old, who has been acting coach since June this year, was awarded the full-time position following a run of outstanding results, including a historic ODI series win over India and a Test victory against both England and New Zealand.

Charith Asalanka has been added to the team as a captain of a side that includes Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and Avishka Fernando as some of the key players. Seasoned wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal has also been added. Bhanuka Rajapaksa is another explosive batter added while Kamindu Mendis will present a much-needed potential all-rounder in the team.

Wanindu Hasaranga heads the spin department and some medium-pacers like Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage in support. Matheesha Pathirana, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Nuwan Thushara, Binura Fernando, and Asitha Fernando up front handle the fast-bowling duties.

Sri Lanka squad for T20I series against West Indies:

Charith Asalanka (capt), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Binura Fernando and Asitha Fernando.

West Indies are known for their explosive T20 cricket and would test Sri Lanka tough. The matches for the series are scheduled to be played on October 13, 15, and 17. This is an important stepping stone in Sri Lanka’s preparation for future international engagements as the team looks to continue in the positive momentum developed by Jayasuriya.