Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially unveiled its 15-member squad on Tuesday for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
Wanindu Hasaranga is notably absent from the roster due to an ongoing recovery from an injury.
However, SLC has confirmed that if Hasaranga is declared fit during the tournament, he will be considered a potential replacement in case another squad member sustains an injury during gameplay, as stated in an official announcement.
Hasaranga played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka's victory during the World Cup qualifiers held in June and July, where he emerged as the tournament's leading wicket-taker with an impressive 22 wickets in just seven matches.
Unfortunately, fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera remains sidelined due to a shoulder injury and is not part of the squad. On a positive note, both Dilshan Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara have returned to the squad after missing the Asia Cup.
Madushanka had been sidelined with an oblique muscle tear sustained during a practice game before the Asia Cup, while Lahiru Kumara had been absent from cricketing action due to a recurring side strain.
Despite the absence of Hasaranga and Chameera, Sri Lanka's squad remains well-balanced for the global event.
At the top, Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, and Kusal Mendis are set to lead the charge. The middle order includes Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, and Dhananjaya de Silva.
The team boasts a strong contingent of all-rounders, with skipper Dasun Shanaka leading the way, supported by Dhananjaya, Dunith Wellalage, and Asalanka.
In the pace department, Sri Lanka has Kasun Rajitha, Dilshan Madushanka, Lahiru Kumara, and the emerging talent Matheesha Pathirana. The spin attack will be spearheaded by Maheesh Theekshana, with support from Wellalage and Dhananjaya, among others.
Sri Lanka Squad
Dasun Shanaka (c), Kusal Mendis (vc), Kusal Perera, Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, Lahiru Kumara, Dilshan Madushanka
Travelling Reserve
Chamika Karunaratne
