Sri Lanka Announces T20I Squad for Zimbabwe Tour with Exciting New Talent

Sri Lanka has named its squad for the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe, introducing fresh faces and making strategic changes to the lineup. The squad includes promising young talents like Nuwanidu Fernando and Halambage, who have earned their maiden national call-ups following impressive performances in domestic cricket.

Nuwanidu Fernando, a 20-year-old batter, has been recalled to the squad after leading the recent SLC T20 League in runs, scoring 155 from four innings at an average of 77.50. While his strike rate of 124 was modest compared to some of his peers, his consistency has earned him a spot as a potential long-term replacement for Avishka Fernando and Dinesh Chandimal in the No. 4 position.

Halambage, another rising star, also makes his debut for the national team. Alongside him, legspin-bowling all-rounder Dushan Hemantha and seamer Dushmantha Chameera have been included, showcasing the selectors' focus on building a more versatile and aggressive T20I squad. Hemantha's inclusion, in particular, is noteworthy as he replaces Wanindu Hasaranga, offering additional skills in fielding and batting.

The squad also features established players like Charith Asalanka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Dasun Shanaka, ensuring a balance of experience and youth. The T20I series is set to begin on September 3rd in Harare, following two ODIs.

Squad Details:

• Charith Asalanka (captain)
• Pathum Nissanka
• Kusal Mendis (wicketkeeper)
• Kusal Perera
• Nuwanidu Fernando
• Kamindu Mendis
• Kamil Mishara
• Vishen Halambage
• Dasun Shanaka
• Dunith Wellalage
• Chamika Karunaratne
• Maheesh Theekshana
• Dushan Hemantha
• Matheesha Pathirana
• Nuwan Thushara
• Dushmantha Chameera
• Binura Fernando