Sri Lanka’s squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup features some notable selections and omissions. Left-arm spinning allrounder Dunith Wellalage earns a spot despite never playing a T20 international, highlighting the selectors’ faith in his versatile skill set. Joining him are top-order batter Kamindu Mendis and round-arm seamer Nuwan Thushara, among others.

Experienced players like Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva, and Dasun Shanaka also secure positions in the squad. Wanindu Hasaranga leads the team, returning from a heel injury that kept him out of the IPL to ensure his fitness for the World Cup. Although he hasn’t bowled in practice matches, his leadership and batting prowess make him a key asset.

Wellalage’s inclusion is based more on potential and utility rather than recent T20 form. Capable of left-arm spin, lower-order hitting, and excellent fielding, he offers versatility crucial for a World Cup campaign. Wellalage previously impressed in international cricket, notably taking five wickets against India in an Asia Cup ODI match in 2023.

Some notable exclusions include opening batter Avishka Fernando, left-arm seamer Binura Fernando, and batter Kusal Perera. Their performances or fitness levels didn’t meet the selectors’ standards. The batting order is expected to feature Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, and Angelo Mathews in the top six.

In the spin department, Maheesh Theekshana and captain Hasaranga are likely to lead, with Hasaranga potentially moving up the order when needed. The fast-bowling department sees competition, with Dushmantha Chameera likely to start, but facing competition from Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, and Dilshan Madushanka.

Sri Lanka, placed in group D alongside Bangladesh, Nepal, Netherlands, and South Africa, kick off their campaign against South Africa on June 3 in New York. Their subsequent matches are against Bangladesh in Dallas on June 8, and Nepal and Netherlands in Florida and St. Lucia on June 12 and 17, respectively.

Here’s the Sri Lanka squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup:
– Wanindu Hasaranga (capt)
– Charith Asalanka (vc)
– Kusal Mendis
– Pathum Nissanka
– Kamindu Mendis
– Sadeera Samarawickrama
– Angelo Mathews
– Dasun Shanaka
– Dhananjaya de Silva
– Maheesh Theekshana
– Dunith Wellalage
– Dushmantha Chameera
– Matheesha Pathirana
– Nuwan Thushara
– Dilshan Madushanka