Bhanuka Rajapaksa makes return to Sri lanka’s T20 side for the West Indies series after a long absence from the side.
Bhanuka Rajapaksa was added back to the team for Sri Lanka’s three-match T20I series against the West Indies, although previous captain Dasun Shanaka was left out. Shanaka is out, thus Chamindu Wickramasinghe, a 22-year-old seam bowler who made his debut against India, stays in the lineup.
Dilshan Madushanka, with his fast left arm, likewise had no room. Due to an injury that has prevented him from playing competitive cricket since July, fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera was unable to make the squad as well.
The squad is rather predictable otherwise. This time, legspinner Jeffrey Vandersay is included in the playing eleven after making an impact in the ODI series against India as Wanindu Hasaranga’s replacement. Even Hasaranga himself has returned.
Perhaps because of his strong results in the Test format, Dinesh Chandimal, who was included in the team against India but hasn’t participated in a match in this format since 2022, manages to hold his spot.
Rajapaksa, 32, on the other hand, hasn’t played for Sri Lanka since January 2023 and doesn’t have a lot of form going into the game. He was merely a mediocre player for St Lucia Kings in the just finished CPL. However, he has been selected based on prior performances. This is a long-term issue for Sri Lanka as they look for batters who can finish innings.
Meanwhile, Madushanka’s exclusion stems from the fact that he was too costly for this format. His economy rate after 15 games is 9.75, which is excessive for a bowler who typically takes one wicket every game. However, Sri Lanka has other options. The frontline speed contingent consists of slingers Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, left-armer Binura Fernando, and right-arm seamer Asitha Fernando.
Sri Lanka’s options for spin bowling include Hasaranga, Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, and Dunith Wellalage. Kamindu Mendis may also contribute overs. Dhananjaya de Silva, the test captain, is not included in this team.
The three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) will be held in Dambulla starting on Sunday.