Rathnayake Recalled as Sri Lanka Name Squad for England T20Is; Thushara, Kamindu Omitted

Sri Lanka have recalled Pavan Rathnayake to their T20I squad for the upcoming three-match series against England, following his impressive innings of 121 off 115 balls in the third ODI of the series. Rathnayake had been omitted from the earlier T20I squad but has now earned a return on the back of his strong form.

Fast bowler Nuwan Thushara and batting allrounder Kamindu Mendis are notable omissions from the squad, while legspinner Dushan Hemantha has also been left out. Thushara’s exclusion comes despite his regular presence in Sri Lanka’s T20I squads over the past two years, following a string of modest performances since September.

Left-arm-spinning allrounder Dunith Wellalage has retained his place in the squad, although he has not featured in a T20 International since September. Sri Lanka’s spin department will be led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, with additional finger-spin options available in Dhananjaya de Silva and Charith Asalanka.

The pace attack includes Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Pramod Madushan and Eshan Malinga, providing Sri Lanka with a mix of experience and pace.

Apart from Rathnayake’s inclusion, the batting line-up remains largely unchanged, with Kusal Perera returning in the only international format he currently plays.

Sri Lanka are yet to announce their squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7. Teams have until January 31 to make changes to their squads, after which any alterations will require approval from the ICC.

Sri Lanka squad for England T20Is:
Dasun Shanaka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga.