News

Mathews, Dimuth, and Chameera make the cut for the white ball series against Afghanistan

Published

3 years ago

May 27, 2023

Editor

Dushan Hemantha and Matheesha Pathirana are in line to debut in the first ODI

Former skippers Dimuth Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews and spearhead Dushmantha Chameera have been included in the Sri Lanka squad to face Afghanistan in the three-match ODI series scheduled to begin on June 2 in Mahinda Rajapaksa international stadium, Hambanthota.

Dimuth Karunaratne who was dropped from the white ball format after the 2019 world cup in England has been recalled to the squad to strengthen the top order where he is likely to open the batting along with Pathum Nissanka who is also back in the team after recovering from a back injury.

Dimuth Karunaratne who has played 86 test matches and 34 ODI has good experience as an opener he played his last ODI in 2021 March 14 against West Indies at North Sound. Karunarathna recently played two T20 matches at BPL in Dhaka and scored an unbeaten 70 and 21 for the Shinepokur team in the Dhaka Premier League tournament. He also had the opportunity to play Australia League white ball tournament and once again got a chance to enter the National white ball squad.

Meanwhile, Angelo Mathews who was also dropped from the white ball squad after his poor performance was given a chance at Sri Lanka’s tour to New Zealand in April but he failed to live up to expectations. It seems like selectors have once again given a chance to the former skipper to show his capabilities ahead of the world cup Qualifiers in June and July in Zimbabwe.

It is learnt the inclusion of Dimuth and Angelo in the squad will be a morale booster for the youngster, especially considering their experience.

Pacer Dushmantha Chameera has also found a spot in the 16-member squad after being out of action for almost 15 months after undergoing surgery on his ankle.

Chameera will be backed by Lasith Malinga like Matheesha Pathirana to strengthen the bowling department. Pacers Lahiru Kumara and Kasun Rajitha are also in the squad.

Another notable inclusion for the squad is
Leg-spinning all-rounder Dushan Hemantha who is also expected to debut in the first ODI.

Dushan Hemantha who was part of the Test squad that beat Ireland 2-0 in April but failed to earn his Test cap, has finally earned a call to the white ball squad for the first time to boost the spin attack alongside Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana.

It is reported the selectors have backed more on the batters with including8 of them the likes of Dimuth Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, skipper Dasun Shanaka and Sadeera Samarawickrama.

Sri Lanka is also likely to experiment with a new opening pair and is likely to go with Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka.

Wicketkeeper batter Sadeera Samarawickrama has also been recalled to the white ball set-up after almost 4 years after his decent performance in domestic cricket.

The only concern for Sri Lanka ahead of the world cup qualifiers next month is Kusal Janith Perera’s injury. As a result, he has also loose his spot in the squad to face Afghanistan but it is believed the dashing batter will be fully fit for the World Cup qualifiers in June-July in Zimbabwe.

16-Member squad:

Dimuth Karunaratne, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Kumara, Matheesha Pathirana, Kasun Rajitha

News

Nadeesha Gayanthi Shines Internationally with Double Medal Triumph in England

Published

4 hours ago

April 15, 2026

Editor

Sri Lanka’s badminton scene received a major boost as experienced shuttler Nadeesha Gayanthi delivered an impressive performance at a prestigious international championship in England, bringing home both gold and silver medals.

Competing at the 108th edition of the All England Senior Badminton Championship, Gayanthi stood out among a highly competitive field that featured nearly 400 players from 25 countries. The tournament, held in London from April 10 to 12, attracted seasoned athletes from across the globe, making her achievement even more remarkable.

Gayanthi dominated the over-40 women’s singles category, securing the gold medal with a series of strong performances. She further showcased her versatility by advancing to the finals in the mixed doubles event, where she claimed the silver medal, completing a successful campaign on the international stage.

Cricket

Dilshan Madushanka Earns IPL Opportunity with Sunrisers Hyderabad

Published

1 day ago

April 14, 2026

Editor

Sri Lankan pace sensation Dilshan Madushanka has secured a spot in the Indian Premier League, stepping in as a replacement player for Sunrisers Hyderabad. The franchise announced his inclusion after England fast bowler Brydon Carse was ruled out of the tournament due to injury.

Madushanka, known for his sharp left-arm pace and ability to swing the ball early, joins the squad as a like-for-like replacement. His addition comes at a crucial stage in the tournament, where teams are looking to fine-tune their combinations for a strong finish.

Sunrisers Hyderabad have been actively reshaping their bowling unit, and Madushanka’s arrival is expected to add both variety and depth. His international experience, particularly in high-pressure situations, makes him a valuable asset as the team navigates the latter half of the competition.

For Madushanka, this opportunity marks another significant milestone in his growing career. Having already impressed on the global stage with his pace and wicket-taking ability, the IPL now offers him a platform to showcase his skills among some of the best players in the world.

Cricket

Chamindu Wickramasinghe’s bowling action under scrutiny?

Published

2 days ago

April 13, 2026

Editor

Sri Lankan fast bowler Chamindu Wickramasinghe has come under the spotlight after his bowling action was officially reported as suspicious during a recent domestic encounter.

The incident occurred in a match of the National Super League held from April 6 to 9, where the Dambulla side faced Colombo. Wickramasinghe, representing Dambulla, drew attention from match officials, prompting concerns over the legality of his action.

The on-field umpires, Deepal Gunawardena and Ravindra Wimalasiri, made the report in accordance with standard procedures. Match referee Manoj Mendis also oversaw the process, ensuring that all regulations were followed.

Following the report, the matter has been referred to the Sri Lanka Cricket High Performance Unit for further assessment. Wickramasinghe may now be required to undergo biomechanical testing to determine whether his bowling action complies with the laws of the game.