DUBAI: Selectors are deliberating on how to balance their XI for the T20 World Cup while closely monitoring the fitness of a key fast bowler. Sri Lanka’s optimism rests on the recovery of Matheesha Pathirana, their key pacer, who sustained a hamstring injury during the Indian Premier League.
As they prepare for the tournament, Sri Lanka’s chief selector, Upul Tharanga, anticipates Pathirana’s availability for their first match against South Africa. With a squad boasting multiple spinners alongside formidable pace options, including Thushara and Madushanka, Sri Lanka aims to strike the right balance.
Tharanga is considering the possibility of fielding three spinners in certain matches, recognizing the potential of slow pitches in the USA and the West Indies. Adaptability will be key as teams navigate diverse conditions across the tournament’s venues.
The Sri Lanka squad, captained by Wanindu Hasaranga, includes Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, and Dilshan Madushanka, with Asitha Fernando, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, and Janith Liyanage serving as traveling reserves.
