Sri Lanka announce squad for T20 World Cup 2024

Their campaign kicks off on 3 June against South Africa in New York, setting the stage for a thrilling series of matches

PHOTO: AFP

Sri Lanka has announced its squad for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, scheduled to take place in West Indies and USA next month.

Leading the charge as captain is the dynamic all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga, who assumed the role of Sri Lanka's T20I skipper in December last year. Charith Asalanka, a formidable presence in the middle-order, will serve as his deputy during this prestigious tournament.

One of the highlights of this squad announcement is the return of seasoned campaigner Angelo Mathews, marking his sixth T20 World Cup appearance. Mathews, a key figure in Sri Lanka's triumphant campaign in 2014, brings invaluable experience and versatility to the team.

Supporting Hasaranga in leadership roles are the experienced duo of Dasun Shanaka and Kusal Mendis, both former captains in different formats, alongside Dhananjaya de Silva, the current Test captain. This blend of leadership ensures a well-rounded approach on and off the field.

Sri Lanka's squad boasts a balanced mix of spin and pace options, with Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dhananjaya de Silva, and Kamindu Mendis providing spin-bowling prowess. Mathews and Shanaka add depth to the pace department, complementing the frontline bowlers Dushmantha Chameera and Dilshan Madushanka.

Adding an exciting dimension to Sri Lanka's bowling attack are Matheesha Pathirana and Nuwan Thushara, whose bowling styles evoke memories of the legendary Lasith Malinga.

In Group D of the tournament, Sri Lanka will face stiff competition from South Africa, Bangladesh, Netherlands, and Nepal.

Their campaign kicks off on 3 June against South Africa in New York, setting the stage for a thrilling series of matches.

Sri Lanka squad: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), 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

Traveling Reserves: Asitha Fernando, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, and Janith Liyanage.