Sri Lanka announce squad for Zimbabwe ODIs

Kusal Mendis. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

Following a challenging 2023, Sri Lanka aim for a stronger performance in 2024. The team will commence cricketing engagements in the New Year with a series of three ODIs and three T20Is against Zimbabwe on home turf.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced the final ODI squad for the upcoming series against Zimbabwe, appointing Kusal Mendis as the captain. The squad boasts a mix of seasoned players and rising talents, including Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Dasun Shanaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, and Sahan Arachchige.

In the bowling department, Jeffrey Vandersay and Dushmantha Chameera lead the charge, supported by promising bowlers Dunith Wellalage and Pramod Madushan, enhancing the team’s bowling options. The spin division will rely on the skills of Akila Dhananjaya, pending Wanindu Hasaranga’s fitness, and Maheesh Theekshana. Additionally, the squad introduces Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwanindu Fernando, and Janith Liyanage, offering further depth.

SLC is set for reforms after ICC reprimand

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is gearing up to implement a fresh law aimed at tackling external influence in the corridors of power, a move triggered by the recent suspension from the International Cricket Council (ICC) due to “political interference.” A cabinet sub-committee, appointed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, has furnished recommendations to address governance lapses that led to the ICC’s suspension of SLC.

The sub-committee’s formation came after former Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe attempted to establish an interim panel for SLC, breaching ICC governance regulations for member nations. This suspension resulted in the relocation of the Under-19 World Cup to South Africa. President Wickremesinghe swiftly acted, removing both Ranasinghe and his successor, Harin Fernando, and reinstating the elected administration led by Shammi Silva.

Amidst this turmoil, Wickremesinghe signalled plans to draft a contemporary sports law, replacing the antiquated 1973 statute that bestowed the sports minister with the authority to appoint interim committees. Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, heading the cabinet committee, revealed a review of SLC’s current setup to propose extensive reforms. The primary aim is to prevent external interference and fortify the governance framework of the cricket board.

Sri Lanka final ODI squad for Zimbabwe series:

Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (C), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Sahan Arachchige, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwanindu Fernando, Janith Liyanage, Maheesh Theekshana, Akila Dhananjaya, Wanindu Hasaranga (Subject to fitness)