Retired ODI fast bowler Lasith Malinga is all set to return as the Sri Lankan skipper in the upcoming three-match T20I series against New Zealand beginning on 1st September in Pallekele. Malinga recently retired from ODI cricket after competing in the 2019 World Cup.
Meanwhile the wicket-keeper batsman Niroshan Dickwella has been named as the vice-captain for the T20I series. Sri Lanka has played some below-par cricket in the recent times and lost their previous T20I series against South Africa in March last year.
Meanwhile, youngster, Avishka Fernando has also been picked in the squad. He scored his maiden ODI century during the 2019 World Cup match against the West Indies. He followed it up with his batting exploits in the series against Bangladesh scoring 82 in the 2nd ODI.
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Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has left out experienced all-rounder Thisara Perera from the 15 member squad. Visitors New Zealand will play a practice match against Sri Lanka’s Board President’s XI before the start of the series.
Full squad: Lasith Malinga (c), Niroshan Dickwella, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Janith Perera, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Mendis, Shehan Jayasuriya, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Akila Dananjaya, Lakshan Sandakan, Isuru Udana, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara, Lahiru Madushanka