Dimuth Karunaratne, a former captain of Sri Lanka, has re-selected for the nation’s 50-over squad as they prepare to meet Afghanistan in a series. Karunaratne, who led Sri Lanka in the previous ODIs World Cup held in 2019, hasn’t played in this format since his most recent outing in March 2021.
The probability that he will take into consideration for Sri Lanka’s World Cup preparations has increased with his selection to the team. After being out for an extended period of time due to injury, fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera picked to the 16-man roster and makes her return to the national team. Chameera hasn’t competed for Sri Lanka since 2023.
The sole new member of the team is Dushan Hemantha, therefore his involvement stands out. The 29-year-old, who has not yet represented his country’s team, selected because of his remarkable exploits in List A cricket competitions. Nuwanidu Fernando, Sahan Arachchige, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, and Dilshan Madushanka were members of the team that competed in New Zealand earlier this year; however, they were not a part of the lineup for the upcoming series.
Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana, winners of the IPL, will join the national team right away for upcoming matches. Kusal Perera’s hamstring injury, which he sustained in New Zealand, is the reason Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) did not selected him for the team. Wanindu Hasaranga will only take part in the series if his foot problem heals completely. Currently, he has recovered from the disease. The first of the three games of the series is set to start on June 2 in Hambantota.
squad
The squad for the upcoming matches comprises of the following players: Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (Wicket-Keeper), Angelo Mathews, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama (Wicket-Keeper), Chamika Karunaratne, Dushan Hemantha, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Dushmantha Chameera, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, and Maheesh Theekshana.
conclusion
The decision by Sri Lanka to reactivate Dimuth Karunaratne for the upcoming ODIs series against Afghanistan is wonderful news! This illustrates that the team has entire faith in Karunaratne’s skills and background as they get ready for the series. His presence strengthens and diversifies Sri Lanka’s batting order, increasing their likelihood of defeating Afghanistan. It undoubtedly benefits the team and the fans!
