Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) have announced their 16-member T20I squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, which includes three T20 matches starting on December 28. The squad will be led by Charith Asalanka, who takes the helm as captain, aiming to build on the team’s recent performances.

Squad Overview

The selected squad features a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, reflecting Sri Lanka’s strategy to strengthen their T20 format. Notably absent from the lineup is Dunith Wellalage, a promising all-rounder who has been dropped from the team considering the seam-bowler friendly pitches in New Zealand. His absence opens the door for other players to step up and contribute to the team’s success.

Chamindu Wickramasinghe, who made his debut in the home series against West ??Indies, retains his p;ace by being the lone fast-bowli??ng all-rounder in the squad.

Upcoming Matches

Sri Lanka’s T20I series against New Zealand consists of three matches scheduled for:

• 1st T20I: December 28, 2024 (Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui)
• 2nd T20I: December 30, 2024 (Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui)
• 3rd T20I: January 2, 2025 (Saxton Oval, Nelson)

Following the T20I series, Sri Lan??ka will also play three ODIs against New Zealand on January 5, 8, and 11.

Also READ: New Zealand names the?ir new limited-overs captain

Context of the tour

This tour comes on the heels of a disappointing Test series against South Africa, where Sri Lanka suffered a 2-0 whitewash. The Islanders will be looking to regain form and confidence in the shorter format as they prepare for a ?competitive series against the Black Caps, who a??re known for their challenging conditions and strong home performances.

Sri Lanka’s T20I squad for New Zealand tour

Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mend?is, Avishka Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Matheesha Pathirana, Jeffrey Vandersay, N?uwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana

Also READ: Keshav Maharaj’s stunning fifer secures clean sweep for South Africa in final Test against Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka are preparing to face New Zealand in a three-match ODI series after their T20I series ended in a 1-1 draw. The first ODI will be held at the Rangiri D?amb??ulla International Stadium in Dambulla on Wednesday, November 13.

This s?eries promises to be a crucial test for both teams, with Sri Lanka aiming to build on their recent T20I form and the Blackcaps looking to assert dominance in the 50-over format.

Key Sri lanka players to watch out 

Sri Lanka will rely on a handful of key players to make a significant impact in the ODI series. Opener Pathum Nissanka, who was the highest run-scorer in the T20I series with 71 runs, will be one to watch. His solid technique and ability to anchor the innings make him a crucial figure in the top order. Additionally, Dunith Wellalage, who was one of the most valuable players of the T20I series where he took 3 wickets and and scored some valuable runs, will be instrumental with both ball and bat. His all-round abilities give Sri Lanka the flexibility to challenge New Zealand across all departments.

Best playing XI for Sri Lanka for the ODI series against New Zealand

1. Charith Asalanka (Captain)

• Role: Batting All-Rounder
• Strengths: Asalanka’s aggressive batting style allows him to take charge early in the innings, making him a key player for Sri Lanka. His ability to unsettle bowlers from the outset will be vital for setting a strong foundation.
• Impact: Asalanka, who has matured into a leader, will also captain the side, bringing both his batting prowess and leadership skills to the forefront. His assertive play can shift the momentum of any game, making him an indispensable asset at the top of the order.

2. Kusal Mendis

• Role: Opener
• Strength: Mendis has built a reputation for explosive starts and will be tasked with providing Sri Lanka with a high tempo from the very beginning. His ability to attack both pace and spin effectively makes him a potent weapon at the top.
• Impact: With his attacking mindset, Mendis can lay the groundwork for a competitive total, ensuring that Sri Lanka has a strong platform to build upon in the early overs.

Also READ: SL vs NZ 2024: New Zealand’s best playing XI f??or the ODI series against Sri Lanka

3. Pathum Nissanka

• Role: Opener
• Strength:  Nissanka’s ability to rotate the strike and build solid partnerships will be crucial for maintaining stability at the top of the order.
• Impact: A technically sound batter, Nissanka has already proven his worth in T20s and is expected to play a pivotal role in anchoring the innings and building partnerships in the ODIs. His adaptability will be key in either anchoring or accelerating the innings as needed.

4. Avishka Fernando

• Role: Top-Order Batter
• Strength: Known for his precise shot selection, Fernando’s ability to read game situations and perform under pressure makes him an experienced asset in the middle order, especially in critical match moments.
• Impact: Fernando’s presence in the middle overs will provide a calm and composed approach, ensuring that Sri Lanka can finish strong when the pressure mounts.

5. Kamindu Mendis

• Role: Middle-Order Batter
• Strength: Mendis’s fearless approach and power-hitting capability provide Sri Lanka with a dynamic option in the middle overs. His quick-fire innings can turn the tide of a game, especially when the batting side needs to accelerate.
• Impact: His boundary-hitting ability in the middle overs will be crucial in helping Sri Lanka gain momentum during the match, especially in tight contests.

6. Kusal Perera

• Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
• Strength: Perera’s calm demeanor and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him a valuable finisher. His dual role as a wicketkeeper adds balance to Sri Lanka’s side, ensuring solid fielding while being a reliable middle-order batter.
• Impact: Perera will be relied upon to stabilize the innings in the middle order and finish games strongly, ensuring that Sri Lanka can post competitive totals and chase down targets effectively.

7. Jeffrey Vandersay

• Role: All-Rounder
• Strength: Vandersay is one of Sri Lanka’s most dynamic players in ODI, excelling with the ball his skillful spin bowling and ability to take quick wickets in the middle overs will be key against New Zealand’s strong batting lineup.
• Impact: With his ability to turn a game with the ball, Vandersay will be pivotal in providing balance to Sri Lanka’s lineup and ensuring they have the tools to challenge New Zealand across all formats.

8. Dunith Wellalage

• Role: Spinner
• Strength: The left-arm spin of Wellalage will be crucial in containing New Zealand’s aggressive batters during the middle overs. His control and maturity for a young player are commendable, and he has the ability to pick up key wickets when the pressure is high.
• Impact: Wellalage’s composure and control under pressure make him an asset for Sri Lanka, and he will be a key player in the middle overs, helping to slow down New Zealand’s progress while taking crucial wickets.

9. Maheesh Theekshana

• Role: Spin Bowler
• Strength: Theekshana’s ability to generate turn and variation will be a critical weapon in Sri Lanka’s bowling attack. His experience will play a significant role in exploiting home conditions, where he can make the most of the spin-friendly pitches.
• Impact: Theekshana will be expected to lead Sri Lanka’s spin attack, especially in key middle-overs phases. His ability to break partnerships and control the game’s tempo will be vital in disrupting New Zealand’s batting order.

10. Asitha Fernando

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Strength: Asitha’s swing and control will be a major asset to Sri Lanka’s pace attack. His ability to move the ball in the air will be important, particularly in the early stages of the innings.
• Impact: Asitha’s experience in Sri Lankan conditions, combined with his ability to make early breakthroughs, will be essential in disrupting New Zealand’s opening batters and ensuring that Sri Lanka can put pressure on the opposition from the outset.

11. Dilshan Madushanka

• Role: Fast Bowler
• Strength: Madushanka’s express pace and accuracy make him a dangerous weapon, especially during the powerplay and death overs. His yorkers and aggressive approach will be vital in breaking key partnerships and containing runs.
• Impact: Madushanka’s raw pace and aggressive mindset will make him a significant threat, particularly in the final overs, where his ability to execute deliveries under pressure will play a major role in restricting New Zealand’s scoring.

Also READ: 5 New Zealand players to record a hat-tri??ck in T20Is ft. Lockie Ferguson

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Sri Lanka opened the T20I series with an exciting four-wicket win over New Zealand at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, propelled by Dunith Wellalage’s inspired spin bowling and a composed finish from Charith Asalanka. In a game where bowlers held the upper hand, Wellalage’s precise line and clever variations caused headaches for New Zealand’s top order, setting the stage for Sri Lanka’s victory.

Dunith Wellalage’s spin magic to castle Dunith Wellalage

New Zealand’s innings began on a rocky note, especially after Tim Robinson’s early dismissal in the second over. Wellalage, with only his second delivery of the game, claimed Robinson’s wicket with a beautifully disguised slider. Aiming to play off the back foot, Robinson misread the pace and trajectory of the ball, which skidded in sharply to clatter into his leg-stump, sending the zing bails flying. Robinson’s brief knock of 3 off 6 balls highlighted the challenge facing New Zealand’s batters against Wellalage’s spin magic.

Here’s the video:

Beaten and how 🔥#TimRobinson is completely undone by the trickery of #DunithWellalage 🪄 #SonySportsNetwork #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/180N2ZFjq8

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) November 9, 2024

Also READ: SL vs NZ 2024, 2nd T20I – Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs New Zealand

Wellalage continued to press the advantage, taking crucial wick?ets and finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 20. His efforts, complemented by disciplined performances from Wanindu Hasaranga (2 for 20), Nuwan Thushara (2 for 14) and Matheesha Pathirana (2 for 29), helped restrict New Zealand to a modest total of 135 in 19.3 ov??ers. Michael Bracewell and Zakary Foulkes offered some resistance, each contributing 27, but New Zealand’s batting lacked the firepower needed to post a more competitive score.

Sri Lanka takes 1-0 lead in the two-match series

Chasing 136, Sri Lanka encountered early setbacks as Foulkes fought back with the ball, claiming 3 for 20. However, a steady and determined innings from Asalanka, who anchored the chase with an unbeaten 35, ensured Sri Lanka reached the target with one over to spare. Despite some nervy moments, the hosts held their nerve, ending on 140/6 in 19 overs.

This victory puts Sri Lanka 1-0 ahead in the series, with Wellalage’s performance signalling his potential as a game-changer. The second T20I will offer New Zealand an opportunity to regroup, but they’ll need to find an answer to Sri Lanka’s formidable spin attack if they hope to level the series.

Also READ: SL vs NZ 2024 – Charith Asalanka, bowlers steer Sri Lanka to victory in the 1st T20I

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Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) unveiled their men’s squads for the upcoming limited-overs series against New Zealand, set to take place at home in November. The series will commence with two T2??0Is on November 9, followed by three ODIs starting on November 13. The venues for the series are the Rangiri Dambulla? International Stadium in Dambulla, which will host the T20Is and the first ODI, and the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, which will stage the second and third ODIs.

Sri Lanka’s strong lineup for the series

Both squads feature a mix of experienced players who have been key to recent home series victories, including wins against India and the West Indies. Charith Asalanka will lead Sri Lanka in both formats, showcasing his leadership capabilities and consistency in the middle order. The teams also include several match-winners such as Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Wanindu Hasaranga, who are expected to play crucial roles? in the series.

Sri Lanka’s ODI squad includes seasoned players like Kusal Perera, Avishka Fernando, and the all-rounders Kamindu Mendis and Dunith Wellalage. The T20I squad sees the return of veterans such as Dinesh Chandimal and Bhanuka Rajapaksa, alongside exciting young talents like Matheesha Pathirana and Chamidu Wickramasinghe.

Also READ: New Zealand n?ame ODI and T20I squads for Sri Lanka tour; Mitchell Santner to lead the Black Caps

Previous encounter and expectations

Sri Lanka and New Zealand last met in a two-match Test series in September, where Sr??i Lank??a emerged victorious with a 2-0 series win. New Zealand, having traveled to India after the Test series, will come into the limited-overs encounters with momentum from their World Test Championship campaign. However, Sri Lanka will be confident, especially with home advantage and the form of their experienced players.

Sri Lanka squads for New Zealand series

• ODI: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamidu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz
• T20I: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamidu Wickramasinghe, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Binura Fernando, Asitha Fernando

Also READ: 2 Tests an??d 1 ODI: Cricket Australia announces schedule for Sri Lanka tour

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The upcoming ODI series between Sri Lanka and West Indies promises to?? be an exciting contest as both teams look to build momentum following their recent T20?? encounters. The series will feature three ODIs, taking place at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on October 20, 23, and 26.

Both teams’ form and recent performance

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka enters the ODI series with a boost in confidence after winning the T20I series against West Indies 2-1. Under the captaincy of Charith Asalanka, the team has demonstrated resilience and skill, particularly in the second T20I where they won by 73 runs. Key players like Kusal Mendis and Wanindu Hasaranga are expected to play pivot?al roles in the ODI format, contri??buting both with bat and ball.

West Indies

The West Indies team, led by Shai Hope, will be looking to bounce back after their T20 series defeat. They have made some strategic changes to their squad, emphasizing a stronger spin attack which could be crucial on the turning tracks of Sri Lanka. With experienced players like Evin Lewis and Alzarri Joseph in the lineup, they will aim to regain their footing ??in the ODI ?series.

Also WATCH: Debutant Dunith Wellalage outfoxes West Indies’ batters with his masterful bowling | SL vs WI, 2nd T20I

Sri Lanka’s top-choice playing XI for the ODI series against West Indies

1. Kusal Mendis

• Role: Opening Batter
• Position: Top Order
• Strengths: Kusal is known for his aggressive batting style and ability to score quickly. His experience in international cricket allows him to accelerate the innings and put pressure on bowlers, making him a key player at the top of the order.

2. Pathum Nissanka

• Role: Opening Batter
• Position: Top Order
• Strengths: Nissanka has a solid technique and is capable of anchoring the innings. His ability to play both defensively and aggressively makes him versatile, providing a strong foundation for the team.

3. Charith Asalanka (c)

• Role: Middle Order Batter
• Position: No. 3
• Strengths: Asalanka combines aggressive batting with leadership skills. His ability to handle pressure situations and play impactful innings makes him crucial in stabilizing the middle order.

4. Kamindu Mendis

• Role: All-rounder
• Position: No. 4
• Strengths: A versatile all-rounder, Kamindu can contribute significantly with both bat and ball. His innovative batting techniques can unsettle bowlers, while his off-spin provides valuable options in the bowling department.

5. Sadeera Samarawickrama

• Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
• Position: Middle Order
• Strengths: Samarawickrama is known for his aggressive batting style and sharp wicketkeeping skills. He can accelerate scoring in the middle overs and is effective in finishing games.

6. Angelo Mathews

• Role: All-rounder
• Position: Lower Middle Order
• Strengths: Mathews brings vast experience and stability to the team. His dependable batting and handy medium pace bowling make him a key figure, especially in high-pressure situations.

7. Wanindu Hasaranga

• Role: All-rounder
• Position: Bowling All-rounder
• Strengths: Hasaranga is a dynamic player known for his leg-spin bowling and explosive batting capabilities. His ability to take wickets at crucial moments and contribute runs down the order makes him invaluable.

8. Maheesh Theekshana

• Role: Bowler
• Position: Spin Bowler
• Strengths: Theekshana is recognized for his unique bowling style and effectiveness on turning tracks. His variations can confuse batsmen, making him a key asset in the spin department.

9. Dilshan Madushanka

• Role: Bowler
• Position: Fast Bowler
• Strengths: Madushanka is known for his pace and ability to swing the ball. His consistent line and length make him a reliable option in the fast-bowling attack.

10. Asitha Fernando

• Role: Bowler
• Position: Fast Bowler
• Strengths: Fernando generates good pace and bounce, making him a dangerous bowler during power plays. His aggressive style can unsettle batsmen early on.

11. Dunith Wellalage

• Role: Bowler
• Position: Spin Bowler
• Strengths: Wellalage’s left-arm spin adds variety to the bowling lineup. He has shown promise with his ability to take wickets while maintaining an economical rate.

Also [WATCH]: 4,4,4,4,4 – Pathum Nissanka brutally hammers Shamar Joseph in the 2nd T20I

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Dunith Wellalage is emerging as a standout talent in Sri Lankan cricket. The 21-year-old bowling all-rounder h?as garnered significant attention on social media following his debut for the national team. Despite his limited experience in international cricket, with just one T20I and a handful of ODI appearances, Wellalage has showcased his potential to become a future star.

A highly sought-after prospect in IPL 2025 auction

Having already taken the wickets of renowned players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Steve Smith, Wellalage has demonstrated his capabilities and impressed fans and analysts alike. As a young left-arm spinner, he is likely to be a sought-after player in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction. Teams looking for a spe?cialist spinner and a dependable lower-order batter will undoubtedly target him. Here’s a look at some franchises that may seek to acquire Wellalage in the IPL 2025 auc??tion.

3 teams who can go for Dunith Wellalage in the IPL 2025 players’ auction

Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings currently have spinners such as Rahul Chahar and Harpreet Brar in their squad. However, both players have yet to establish themselves as game-changers, often showing inconsistency in their performances. To strengthen their bowling attack, PBKS could benefit from adding Wellalage, who has the potential to be a significant asset. His ability ?to bowl effectively against top-order batsmen will provide the team with a reliable option in crucial matches.

In addition to his bowling prowess, Wellalage can contribute valuable runs lower down the orde?r, making him a well-rounded a??ddition to the squad. His capacity to score quickly could be particularly beneficial in tight match situations, allowing the Punjab Kings to set competitive totals or chase down targets more effectively. By securing Wellalage, PBKS could enhance their squad depth and overall balance, positioning themselves as serious contenders for the title.

Also WATCH:?? Debutant Dunith We??llalage outfoxes West Indies�batters with his masterful bowling | SL vs WI, 2nd T20I

Lucknow Super Giants

The Lucknow Super Giants primarily rely on Ravi Bishnoi as their only specialist spinner. While Krunal Pandya and Krishnappa Gowtham provide spin options, neithe?r are dedicated spinners, limiting the team’s effectiveness in crucial phases of the game. Adding Wellalage to their ranks could significantly bolster their spin attack, especially given the spin-friendly conditions at Ekana Stadium in L?ucknow.

Wellalage’s addition would not only enhance their bowling lineup but also provide crucial batting depth. His ability to score quickly in the lower order can be a game-changer, particularly in pressure situations where quick runs are ne??eded. This dual capability would allow the Super Giants more flexibility in their batting strategy, making Wellalage an invaluable asset for the team.

Rajasthan Royals

The Rajasthan Royals boast an impressive spin duo in Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal, but both are nearing the twilight of their careers. To ensure a smooth transition and maintain a strong ?bowling unit, the Royals need to invest in young talent, and Wellalage fits the bill perfectly. His le?ft-arm spin adds diversity to their bowling attack, providing a fresh dynamic that could complement the experience of Ashwin and Chahal.

In addition to his bowling skills, Wellalage’s potential with the bat could fill a crucial gap in the team. As an all-rounder, he has the ability to deliver important runs in high-pressure situations, making ??him an ideal candidate for the Royals. His ?youth and energy would inject new life into the squad, ensuring that the franchise remains competitive in the upcoming seasons while continuing to build a legacy in the IPL.

Also READ: IPL 2025: 6? players Punjab Kings (PBKS) can retain ahead of mega auction

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Sri Lanka delivered a dominant performance to level the T20I series against West Indies, securing a commanding 73-run victory in the second match at Dambulla on Tuesday (October 15). The win was powered by the brilliance of debutant Dunith Wellalage, who spun a web around the West Indian batters. His standout performance??, coupled with contributions from other Sri Lankan?? spinners, proved decisive.

While Wellalage led the way, Sri Lanka’s seasoned spinners, Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga and Charith Asalanka, played vital supporting roles in dismantling the West Indian lineup. Theekshana and Hasaranga, both known for their acc??uracy and variations, claimed two wickets each, keeping the pressure on the opposition throughout the innings.

Dunith Wellalage ‘s three crucial wickets: Destroys West Indies’ top-order

Wellalage’s introduction to T20 International cricket couldn’t have been more impactful, as the young Sri Lankan spinner dismantled West Indies’ top order, claiming three wickets for just 9 runs in his 4-over spell. The 20-year-old bowled with incredible control and guile, outsmarting the West Indian batters on a turning pitch in Dambulla.

1. Brandon King (stumped by Kusal Mendis) Wellalage’s first T20I wicket came in the form of a well-set Brandon King. King charged down the wicket in an attempt to break the shackles but was outfoxed by Wellalage, who dragged the ball shorter. King, left stranded, allowed Kusal Mendis to easily whip off the bails, giving the young spinner his maiden wicket.
2. Andre Fletcher (caught by Kamindu Mendis) Pressure got the better of Andre Fletcher as he tried to sweep a well-flighted delivery from Wellalage. The ball took a top edge, and Kamindu Mendis at slip made no mistake, backpedaling to take a simple catch, further denting West Indies’ hopes of building a steady partnership.
3. Roston Chase (caught by Kusal Mendis) Wellalage completed his dream spell by removing Roston Chase. Tossing the ball up with tempting flight, he induced a drive from Chase, who nicked it straight to slip. The late dip in the delivery completely deceived Chase, highlighting Wellalage’s superb control over his variations.

Also WAT??????????????????????????CH: 4,4,?4,4,4 �Pathum Nissanka brutally hammers Shamar Joseph in the 2nd T20I

Sri Lanka’s dominant victory over West Indies

Earlier Sri Lanka, after posting a competitive total of 162/5, thanks to Pathum Nissanka‘s patient 54 and Kusal Perera‘s brisk 24, their spinners stole the show. Wellalage (3/9) was the standout performer, ably supported by Theekshana, Hasaranga, and Asalanka, each chipping in with crucial wickets. West Indies never recovered, collapsing to 89 all out in just 16.1 overs. Despite their explosive lineup, they couldn’t find answers to Sri Lanka’s spin assault. Their top order faltered early, and the middle order crumbled under the mounting pressure, with key players like Johnson Charles and King falling cheaply. Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling, combined with sharp fielding, sealed the match comfortably.

Also READ: Pathum Nissanka, Dunith Wellalage propel Sri Lan??ka to a series-leveling win over the West Indies in 2nd T20I

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Sri Lanka produced a dominant performance to defeat the West Indies by 73 runs in the second T20I at Dambulla on Tuesday (October 15), leveling the series 1-1. Pathum Nissanka’s well-crafted fifty and Dunith Wellalage‘s brilliant three-wicket haul were the standout performances that paved the way for a comprehensive Sri Lankan victory.

Pathum Nissanka’s aggression lifts Sri Lanka to 162/5

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Sri Lanka had a sluggish start, with the West Indies bowlers keeping things tight in the powerplay. Nissanka, alongside Kusal Mendis, managed only 8 runs in the first three overs. However, the momentum shifted in the fourth over when Nissanka unleashed an array of aggressive strokes, including five consecutive boundaries off Shamar Joseph, propelling Sri Lanka into a strong position. Nissanka’s 54 off 49 balls, laced with 9 fours and 1 six, set the tone for the innings, building crucial partnerships with Mendis (26) and Kusal Perera (24).

Sri Lanka’s middle order contributed vital runs as Kamindu Mendis (19) and skipper Charith Asalanka (9) ensured they reached a competitive total of 162/5. Extras played a significant role, with the West Indies conceding 20 runs, including 10 wides. Despite some disciplined bowling from Gudakesh Motie, who conceded only 13 runs in his four overs, the rest of the West Indies attack struggled to contain Sri Lanka’s aggressive approach.

Also WATCH: 4,4,4,4,4 �Pathum Nissanka brutally hammers Shamar Joseph in the 2nd T20??I

West Indies crumble under pressure: Dunith Wellalage’s magic

Chasing 163 to win, the West Indies never found their footing, as Sri Lanka’s bowlers ran riot. Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage dismantled the West Indies’ top order, reducing them to 21/3 in the powerplay. Wellalage, in his debut T20I match for Sri Lanka, was particularly impressive, taking 3 wickets for just 9 runs in his four overs, including the key dismissals of Brandon King, Andre Fletcher and Roston Chase. Asalanka’s part-time off-spin also proved effective, claiming 2 wickets for 6 runs, while Theekshana cleaned up the tail, finishing with 2/7 from 3.1 overs. Despite Rovman Powell’s 20 and Alzarri Joseph’s late 16, the West Indies were bundled out for a paltry 89 in 16?.1 over??s, falling short by a massive 73 runs.

Terrific bowling performance from Sri Lanka 🔥#cricket #SLvWI #SriLankaCricket #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/Iv0WUXWnC0

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) October 15, 2024

Also READ: Sri Lanka vs West Indies 2024, ?T20I Series: Date, Match Time?, Squads, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

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The much-awaited T20I series between Sri Lanka and West Indies i??s set to kick off on October 13 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. This three-match series will see both teams aiming to re??fine their squads and strategies as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures.

Experienced squad with balanced line-up

Sri Lanka heads into the series with a well-balanced team featuring both seasoned and emerging players. The squad boasts strong middle-order batters like Charith Asalanka, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, and Kusal Perera, who have the ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed. Additionally, the bowling department, led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, adds depth with their spin variations, while pace bowlers like Matheesha Pathirana bring speed and agility.

Seeking redemption after loss to India

The Islanders will be looking to bounce back after their disappointing 3-0 loss to India in t??he last T20I series. They aim to regroup and show a much stronger performance against the West Indies. With home advantage, Sri Lanka will ?want to dominate and gain momentum. Captain Asalanka will play a crucial role in leading the team from the front.

Also READ: Sanath Jayasuriya ap??pointed as full-time head coach of Sri Lanka?? men’s team

Sri Lanka’s best playing XI for the T20I series against West Indies

1. Pathum Nissanka

• Strength: Consistent opener with solid technique and ability to build innings.
• Expectation: Provide a steady start and anchor the innings, especially during the powerplay.
• What he brings to the team: Nissanka’s ability to rotate the strike and find gaps early on sets the tone for the innings, allowing other aggressive batters to play freely.

2. Kusal Mendis (wk)

• Strength: Aggressive top-order batter with a quick-scoring ability.
• Expectation: Capitalize on the powerplay and accelerate the scoring rate.
• What he brings to the team: Mendis’s aggressive approach puts pressure on the opposition bowlers, and his wicketkeeping skills add balance to the playing XI.

3. Kusal Perera

• Strength: Explosive left-handed batter known for his attacking shots.
• Expectation: Score quick runs and take advantage of fielding restrictions.
• What he brings to the team: Perera’s fearless approach and experience make him a game-changer at the top, giving Sri Lanka momentum early in the innings.

4. Charith Asalanka (c)

• Strength: Reliable middle-order batter with leadership qualities.
• Expectation: Steady the innings and guide the team, especially during tough situations.
• What he brings to the team: As captain, Asalanka provides stability in the middle order and has the ability to adapt his game according to the situation, making him a dependable player.

5. Bhanuka Rajapaksa

• Strength: Power-hitter capable of finishing games with aggressive stroke play.
• Expectation: Finish the innings strong and handle the pressure in the death overs.
• What he brings to the team: Rajapaksa’s ability to play big shots under pressure helps Sri Lanka boost their total in the final overs, adding depth to the batting lineup.

6. Dinesh Chandimal

• Strength: Experienced campaigner with solid batting technique.
• Expectation: Provide stability and guide younger players during challenging phases of the innings.
• What he brings to the team: Chandimal’s experience and ability to adapt his game according to the situation help the team build partnerships and recover from tough situations.

7. Wanindu Hasaranga

• Strength: Premier all-rounder with exceptional bowling and useful batting skills.
• Expectation: Take crucial wickets in the middle overs and contribute with quick runs down the order.
• What he brings to the team: Hasaranga’s dual role as a wicket-taker and lower-order batter makes him a valuable asset who can change the course of the game with both bat and ball.

8. Dunith Wellalage

• Strength: Promising all-rounder with potential in both batting and bowling.
• Expectation: Support the bowling attack and add depth to the batting lineup.
• What he brings to the team: Wellalage’s versatility allows the team to have an additional spin option, and his lower-order batting can contribute valuable runs.

9. Maheesh Theekshana

• Strength: Mystery spinner with variations that trouble batsmen.
• Expectation: Control the flow of runs and pick up key wickets during the middle overs.
• What he brings to the team: Theekshana’s unique bowling style makes it difficult for batsmen to score freely, providing Sri Lanka with an edge, especially on spin-friendly tracks.

10. Matheesha Pathirana

• Strength: Fast bowler with pace and accuracy, capable of delivering yorkers.
• Expectation: Strike early and maintain pressure with aggressive bowling during the powerplay and death overs.
• What he brings to the team: Pathirana’s ability to bowl fast and accurately, along with his knack for delivering yorkers, makes him a key bowler for Sri Lanka, especially in the final overs.

11. Binura Fernando

• Strength: Tall left-arm pacer with the ability to swing the ball.
• Expectation: Provide breakthroughs and maintain a good economy rate.
• What he brings to the team: Fernando’s left-arm angle and ability to move the ball both ways make him a challenging bowler for opposition batters, adding variety to the Sri Lankan bowling attack.

Also READ: Star players absent as West Indies name T20?I and ODI squads for the Sri Lanka tour

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