Karunaratne makes a comeback as Sri Lanka construct for ODI World Cup
Opening batter Dimuth Karunaratne has been recalled to Sri Lanka’s ODI squad, greater than two years after he final performed a 50-over sport in worldwide cricket. Also returning is quick bowler Dushmantha Chameera, who had missed the New Zealand tour in March 2023 after present process ankle surgical procedure.
Legspinning allrounder Dushan Hemantha is the one uncapped participant within the 16-man squad to face Afghanistan in three ODIs, beginning on Friday. There was no room for left-arm spinning allrounder Dunith Wellalage nevertheless, whereas wicketkeeper Kusal Perera is out with a hamstring damage.
Karunaratne’s presence is a sign that the selectors are as soon as once more set to fall again on his expertise in a World Cup yr, after he’d led Sri Lanka within the 2019 version. They had additionally recalled Angelo Mathews earlier within the yr, and have constantly had Dhananjaya de Silva within the center order as nicely. Karunaratne could also be poised to open alongside Pathum Nissanka. Nuwanidu Fernando, who had opened the batting in New Zealand, was not picked for this sequence.
Hemantha, 29, is one thing of a shock choice. He had not been particularly spectacular with the bat on this yr’s National Super League – Sri Lanka’s best List A match. But he had been good with the ball, taking 13 wickets at a median of 23.61 throughout eight matches. It is feasible he’s there as cowl for Wanindu Hasaranga, who’s “currently undergoing rehabilitation for a foot injury” in accordance the Sri Lanka Criket launch. The solely different frontline spinner within the squad is Maheesh Theekshana.
Each of the three matches can be performed at Hambantota. For Afghanistan, will probably be a part of their lead-up to the World Cup, having already certified for the marquee occasion. Sri Lanka, in the meantime, are but to seal their place. They should play the qualifying match in Zimbabwe subsequent month; these matches will function preparation.
Sri Lanka ODI squad: Dasun Shanaka (capt.), Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushan Hemantha, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Dushmantha Chameera, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana