Binura replaces Chameera in T20 Sri Lanka’s T20I squad

Wanindu Hasaranga will lead a formidable 16-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, set to commence later this week.

Unfortunately, Sri Lanka will be without the services of seamer Dushmantha Chameera throughout the series due to an injury. Binura Fernando has been named as his replacement for the team.

Chameera had to leave the field during the first ODI against Afghanistan and consequently missed the second ODI as well. His quadriceps injury, which is unrelated to his previous injuries, will also keep him out of the T20Is.

The squad remains unchanged from the previous series against Zimbabwe last month. Angelo Mathews, who made a remarkable comeback to the T20I squad after a three-year absence and was awarded the Player of the Series against Zimbabwe, continues to be a vital part of the team.

Hasaranga will lead the team, with Charith Asalanka serving as his deputy. The squad boasts a number of talented all-rounders, including Dhananjaya de Silva, Mathews, former captain Dasun Shanaka, Hasaranga, and Kamindu Mendis.

Hasaranga will spearhead the spin attack, which also features Maheesh Theekshana and Akila Dananjaya.

Pathum Nissanka, who recently achieved the highest score for Sri Lanka in ODIs, will be joined by the likes of Kusal Mendis, Asalanka, Mathews, and Sadeera Samarawickrama in the batting lineup.

All the matches of the series will be held in Dambulla, with the first match scheduled for 17th February, followed by the subsequent games on 19th and 21st.

Squad: Wanindu Hasaranga (C), Charith Asalanka (VC), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kusal Perera, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Akila Dananjaya, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, Nuwan Thushara, Dushmantha Chameera* (subject to fitness), Binura Fernando