Former Sri Lanka skipper Dimuth Karunaratne has earned a recall to the 50-over squad for the upcoming series against Afghanistan at home. Karunaratne, who led Sri Lanka in the previous ODI World Cup in 2019, hasn’t played the format in over two years, with his most recent appearance coming in March 2021.
His inclusion now indicates that he could be in Sri Lanka’s plans for the upcoming World Cup. Fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera, who has had a long injury layoff and hasn’t played for Sri Lanka in 2023, also makes a comeback after being named in the 16-man squad.
Dushan Hemantha is the only new face in the squad as the 29-year-old uncapped player finds a spot after impressive recently in List A cricket. From the squad that played in New Zealand earlier this year, Nuwanidu Fernando, Sahan Arachchige, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan and Dilshan Madushanka have been left out.
IPL winning duo of Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana will also be thrust into action straightaway in national colours. SLC confirmed that Kusal Perera wasn’t considered for selection after he sustained a hamstring injury in New Zealand. Wanindu Hasaranga is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a foot injury and will play the series only if he regains full fitness. The short three-match series commences on June 2nd in Hambantota.
Squad: Dasun Shanaka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (WK), Angelo Mathews, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama (WK), Chamika Karunaratne, Dushan Hemantha, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Dushmantha Chameera, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana
© Cricbuzz
Sri Lanka recall Dimuth Karunaratne for Afghanistan ODIs added by Muslim Kashmir on
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