Mount Maunganui [New Zealand]: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has unveiled its 16-member T20I squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand, with Charith Asalanka set to lead the side. The squad remains unchanged from the one that played against New Zealand in November, showcasing the selectors’ confidence in the existing players.
Key Highlights:
- Charith Asalanka’s Captaincy:
Asalanka will captain the side as Sri Lanka embarks on a three-match T20I series and a subsequent three-match ODI series. - Bhanuka Rajapaksa’s Inclusion:
Rajapaksa retains his place following stellar performances in the Abu Dhabi T10 tournament and the previous series against New Zealand.
Recent Encounters with New Zealand:
In November, Sri Lanka faced New Zealand in a two-match T20I series. Sri Lanka claimed victory in the first match with a four-wicket win, while New Zealand narrowly edged out the second match by five runs.
Tour Schedule:
- T20Is:
- December 28: 1st T20I, Mount Maunganui
- December 30: 2nd T20I, Mount Maunganui
- January 2: 3rd T20I, Nelson
- ODIs:
- January 5, 8, and 11
Sri Lanka’s Recent Performance:
Sri Lanka comes into this series following a 2-0 Test series defeat against South Africa, aiming to regroup and deliver stronger performances in the limited-overs format.
Sri Lanka T20I Squad:
- Charith Asalanka (C)
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kusal Mendis
- Kusal Perera
- Avishka Fernando
- Kamindu Mendis
- Dinesh Chandimal
- Bhanuka Rajapaksa
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Jeffrey Vandersay
- Chamidu Wickramasinghe
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Nuwan Thushara
- Asitha Fernando
- Binura Fernando
The T20I series will provide Sri Lanka with an opportunity to test its squad’s balance and depth as they prepare for a crucial year in international cricket.