Sri Lanka’s Fast Bowler Lasith Malinga became the ODI and T20 Captain

Malinga's come back in team
Sri Lanka’s Fast Bowler Lasith Malinga became the ODI and T20 Captain

Fast Bowler Lasith Malinga has been appointed a captain of Sri Lanka's ODI and T20 side for the tour of New Zealand, with Niroshan Dickwella set to serve as vice-captain.

Angelo Mathew also returns to both squad after being dropped against England for fitness issue.

With the leadership baton being passed over to the veteran fast-bowler, it represents a quick ascension for Malinga, who only made his return to international cricket in September, after a year of issues with his fitness. Nevertheless, he has impressed in his comeback and took 5/44 against England in Dambulla.

Leg-spinner Seekkuge Prasanna is a notable inclusion in the 17-man squad, with Sri Lanka having to find a suitable replacement for Akila Dananjaya, who has been suspended for an illegal bowling action. Dananjaya is Sri Lanka's leading wicket-taker in ODI cricket this year, with 28 wickets from 16 matches.

The three-match ODI series is set to begin on 3 January, followed by a one-off T20I on 11 January.

ODI and T20I squad: Lasith Malinga (c), Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Angelo Mathews, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Perera, Dinesh Chandimal, Asela Gunaratne, Kusal Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Thisara Perera, Dasun Shanaka, Lakshan Sandakan, Seekkuge Prasanna, Dushmantha Chameera, Kasun Rajitha, Nuwan Pradeep, Lahiru Kumara.

Related Stories

No stories found.
logo
Since independence
www.sinceindependence.com