The T20 World Cup 2024 looms as a pivotal moment for Sri Lanka, a nation with a storied history in the shortest format of the game. Having clinched the championship in 2014, Sri Lanka’s journey in T20 cricket has been marked by periods of brilliance intertwined with phases of inconsistency and transition. As they gear up for the 2024 edition, Sri Lanka find themselves at a crossroads, grappling with the challenges of rejuvenating a team that has been characterized by a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent.

T20 World Cup 2024: A crucial litmus test for Sri Lanka

Under the leadership of Wanindu Hasaranga, Sri Lanka’s campaign in the 2024 T20 World Cup assumes heightened significance. Hasaranga, a cricket giant in Sri Lankan cricket, brings with him a dynamic blend of skills and leadership qualities. As they embark on this journey, Sri Lanka will look to forge a new identity, harnessing the potential of their emerging talents while drawing upon the experience of their seasoned campaigners.

With the spotlight firmly on them, the 2024 T20 World Cup presents Sri Lanka with a platform to showcase their resilience, adaptability, and a renewed sense of purpose as they seek to reclaim their stature among the elite in T20 cricket. Sri Lanka will face South Africa in their opening game of T20 World Cup on Mond??ay. However, they will be without some key players this time who played a significant role in last edition in 2022.

Also READ: T20 World? Cup 2024 [Photos]: Meet the wives and girlfriends of Sri Lanka cricketers

4 players from Sri Lanka from 2022 T20 World cup who didn’t make it to 2024 edition:

In the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, Sri Lanka fielded several key players who made significant contributions to the team’s performance. However, these players will not be part of the 2024 edition, which raises questions about the team’s composition and strategy for the upcoming tournament.

1. Chamika Karunaratne

Chamika Karunaratne‘s role in the 2022 T20 World Cup was more limited compared to some of his counterparts. In seven matches, he managed 32 runs off 38 balls, averaging 8.00 with a strike rate of 84.21. His highest score of an unbeaten 14 suggests a struggle to make significant contributions with the bat. While he might have been considered for his bowling prowess, his exclusion from the 2024 squad could stem from the need for more impactful all-rounders or specialists in either batting or bowling.

2. Lahiru Kumara

Lahiru Kumara emerged as one of the key bowlers for Sri Lanka in the 2022 T20 World Cup. Across six matches, he bowled 20.1 overs and claimed 7 wickets at an average of 21.85 and an economy rate of 7??.58. His best bowling figures of 2/24 underscored his ability to contain and take crucial wickets in the middle overs. Despite his decent performances, his exclusion from the 2024 squad might be due to concerns over consistency and the emergence of new bowling talents.

3. Kasun Rajitha

Kasun Rajitha‘s contributions with the ball in the 2022 T20 World Cup were moderate. In three matches, he bowled 11 overs, taking 3 wickets at an average of 31.33 and an economy rate of 8.54. His best bowling figures of 2/23 showcased his ability to pick up wickets but also highlighted a tendency to leak runs. Rajitha’s exclusion from the 2024 squad might be attributed to concerns over economy rates and the need for more consistent performances under pressure.

4. Binura Fernando

Binura Fernando‘s performances in the 2022 T20 World Cup were modest. In three matches, he bowled 8.5 overs, claiming 2 wickets at an average of 32.50 and an economy rate of 7.35. While he managed to pick up wickets, his economy rate suggests a tendency to be expensive at times. Fernando’s exclusion from the 2024 squad could be due to the need for bowlers who can maintain tight lines and apply pressure consistently throughout their spells.

Also READ: 3 players from South Africa who featured in the 2022 T20 World Cup but ?won’t play in the 202??4 edition

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Struggling to find his form and facing questions about his position in the playing XI, Indian cricket star Shreyas Iyer made a stunning comeback in the match against Sri Lanka at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium at ODI World Cup 2023.

Capitalizing on the solid foundation laid by Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, Iyer delivered an electrifying performance, ?amassing 82 runs from just 56 deliveries. His brilliant inni?ngs featured 3 fours and an impressive tally of 6 towering sixes.

The longest six of the ODI World Cup 2023

During his explosive innings, Iyer unleashed the most massive six of the ODI World Cup 2023, sending the ball soaring to a jaw-dropping distance of 106 meters with a straight hit. The awe-inspiring moment occurred in the 36th over when Kasun Rajitha deli?vered a good-length ball that Iyer smashed over the ?long-on boundary for an incredible maximum.

Also READ: ODI World Cup 2023 – Sara Tendulkar’s reaction goes viral after Shubman Gill gets out on 92 in IND vs SL clash

Here is the video:

India post a massive total

Prior to Iyer’s heroics, Gill and Kohli laid a strong foundation with a remarkable partnership. They combined forces to add 189 runs from 178 deliveries for the second wicket. However, both Gill and Kohli narrowly missed achieving centuries, with Gill departing at 92 and Kohli at 88. Eventually, India ended up with an imposing total of 357/8 in their allotted 50 overs.

Shreyas Iyer credits Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli

Iyer attributed his remarkable performance to the strong start provided by Gill ??and Kohli. He praised their ability to accumulate singles, twos, and boundaries, highlighting the solid foundation they created.

“I think it was a pretty good wicket to bat, the ball was coming on and there was some nice bounce. I could settle for a while and then play my shots. It was magnificent to watch (on the partnership between Gill and Kohli), the way they took the singles, twos and the boundaries, they laid the platform for us. We were told that the odd ball was stopping and holding a bit, so it was a good partnership that they had and it helped us later on,” said Iyer during the innings break.

Also READ: ODI World Cup 2023 – Here’s why Sri Lankan players are wearing black armbands in today’s match against India

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In the world of international cricket, where every match is a story of skill, determination and glory, the ODI World Cup 2023 in India stands as a monumental chapter. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are geared up for a month-long spectacle of br?e??athtaking performances and nail-biting moments.

Apart from the fans, cricketers are also determined to make their nation proud and Sri Lankan cricketers are no exception. With the World Cup in India and advantage of familiar condition, the Islanders are leaving no stone unturned to prepare for the matches and they also have their eyes on the coveted title like any other participating nation. While we celebrate the cricketers who will take center stage, it’s also important to remember that behind these sports heroes are incredible women who play an integral part in their lives.

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of preparations, the roar of the crowds, and the pressure of representing their nation, there are partners, wives, and girlfriends who offer unwavering support, love, and a sense of home to the players. They are the silent champions, the unsung heroes, and it’s time we shine the spotlight on them.

On that note, let’s take a moment to get to know the women who stand by the Sri Lankan cricketers participating in the ODI World Cup 2023 and guide these athletes through the ups and downs of their careers.

1) Sadeera Samarawickrama’s wife Thilakshi Gamage

Thilakshi Gamage‘s love story with Sadeera Samarawickrama began in high school, and th?eir bond has grown ?stronger as he has pursued his cricketing dreams.

2) Pathum Nissanka’s wife Eshani Kumarasinghe

Eshani Kumarasinghe is the pillar of strength in Pathum Nissanka‘s life as he represents Sri Lanka on the world stage.

3) Kusal Mendis’ wife Travis Alabanza

Travis Alabanza stands beside Kusal Mendis, offering unwavering?? suppo??rt on his cricketing journey.

4) Dunith Wellalage’s girlfriend Deanne Destiny De Silva

A marketing student, Deanne Destiny De Silva is the girlfriend of Dunith Wellalage a?nd never f??ails to provide invaluable support to her partner.

5) Dasun Shanaka’s wife Chewanthi Perera

A fashion designer and the founder of Chewlee Ceylon, Chewanthi Perera tied the knot with Sri Lankan cricket captain Dasun Shanaka on 5th Septemb?er 2020 and has been a steadfast pillar in his ??life.

6) Charith Asalanka’s wife Kavandika Asalanka

Kavandika and Charith Asalanka embarked on their marital journey on 28th November 2022, adding a new chapter to the??ir love ??story.

Also READ: Meet the beautiful ????wives of prominent Pakistan and Bangladesh cricketers

7) Kasun Rajitha’s wife Chamaththi

A software engineer by profession, Chamaththi is married to Kasun Rajitha, adding love and strength to his ?cricketing journey.

8) Kusal Perera’s wife Kalani

Kalani became the life partner of Kusal Perera on 3rd March 2020, adding her strength to? his career.

9) Dimuth Karunaratne’s wife Anuradha Kurukulasooriya

A model and actress, Anuradha Kurukulasooriya has been married to Dimuth Karunaratne for over 8 years, being a constant source of support th??roughout his career.

10) Dilshan Madushanka’s girlfriend Nimasha Nanayakkara

Nimasha Nanayakkara is the partner of Dilshan Madushanka, offering her unwavering support in ?his cricketing endeavors.

11) Dhananjaya de Silva’s wife Sanduni Nisansala

Sanduni Nisansala is the significant other of Dhananjaya de Silva, o?ffering her unwavering su??pport from the sidelines.

12) Dushan Hemantha’s wife Rashi Hirunika

Rashi Hirunika shares her life with Dushan Hemantha, standing by his side as he takes on the ch??allenges of i?nternational cricket.

13) Lahiru Kumara’s wife Nethsarani Rajapakse

Nethsarani Rajapakse is the loving wife of Lahiru Kumara, standing by him as he ??represents Sri Lanka on the cricket field.

*Note: Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana?? are unmarried and their current relationship status is undisclosed.

Also READ: Meet the wives and g?irlfriends of I?ndian cricketers

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Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially announced its formidable 15-man squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023, set to be held in India.

The Sri Lankan squad, led by captain Dasun Shanaka, is a balance of youth and experience, aiming to make a significant impact in the tournament. The team will rely on the leadership of Shanaka, known for his dynamic captaincy, and the valuable experience of senior players like Kusal Mendis, Dimuth Karunaratna and Dhananjaya de Silva. The squad also includes exciting young talents like Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka and Dunith Wellalage, who have showcased their?? potential on the? international stage.

However, it’s important to note that the fitness of three key players, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana and Dilshan Madhushanka, remains ??subject to evaluation and recovery from their respective inju?ries. Their inclusion in the final squad will depend on their fitness levels closer to the tournament.

Dushan Hemantha and Chamika Karunaratne are the two reserve players

The selection of this squad reflects Sri Lanka’s determination to perform well in the ODI World Cup, where they will face stiff competition from other cricketing powerhouses. Sri Lanka’s CWC campaign will begin on October 7, 2023, against South Africa, and the Islanders are gearing up for intensive preparations in the lead-up to the tournament.

Also READ: ‘It might not be a bad timeâ€?#8217;: AB de Villiers makes huge remarks on Virat Kohli’s retirement

The reserves, Dushan Hemantha and Chamika Karunaratne, stand ready to step in if needed, providing additional depth ?to the squad. Sri Lankan cricket fans are eagerly anticipating the World Cup and are hopeful that this talented group of cricketers will bring glory to the nation after a long gap of 27 years.

Sri Lanka’s 15-man squad for the ODI World Cup 2023:

Dasun Shanaka (c), Kusal Mendis (wk/vc), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Janith, Dimuth Karunaratna, Char?ith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dunith Wellalage, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, Lah?iru Kumara, Wanindu Hasaranga*, Maheesh Theekshana*, Dilshan Madhushanka*

Reserves – Dushan Hemantha, Chamika Karunaratne

*Subject to fitness

Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma shares heartwarming moment with wife Ritika Sajdeh before departing for Rajkot – IND vs AUS 2023, 3rd ODI

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Sri Lanka will co-host the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2023 tournament alongside Pakistan, who defeated Nepal comprehensively last night.

Sri Lanka, the defending champions of the Asia Cup, secured victory over Pakistan in the final of the previous edition held in the UAE. However, this year?? the tournament has returned to its ODI format and is serving as crucial preparation for the ICC World Cup 2023, scheduled to commence on October 5 in India.

The lead-up to Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup campaign was marked by challenges, with the selectors facing the hurdle of injured players. Key pacers Dushmanth??a Chameera and Lahiru Kumara, along with Dilshan Madush??anka, were sidelined due to injuries. Nevertheless, the most significant setback came when star spinner Wanindu Hasaranga suffered a thigh injury during the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2023, resulting in his absence from the Asia Cup squad. This decision was made to allow him ample time for recovery ahead of the Wor??ld Cup.

Taking the helm as captain of the Sri Lankan side will be Dasun Shanaka, with Kusal Mendis serving as his deputy, as they embark on their journe?y to defend their Asia Cup title and prepare?? for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2023.

Also READ: India’s best playing XI for the Asia Cup 2023

Top-order batting: The bedrock of batting brilliance

At the top of the batting order, Sri Lanka relies on the reliable Dimuth Karunaratne. He’s not only an accomplished opener but also the former Test captain, known for his ability to play long, patient innings. Karunaratne’s solid technique, unwavering focus, and leadership qualities make him a vital asset.

Partnering Karunaratne is the dynamic Kusal Perera. As both a wicket-keeper and a left-handed batter, Perera injects aggression into Sri Lanka’s starts. His fearless approach to batting, coupled with an array of attacking shots, can put bowlers under immediate pressure. Perera’s ability to seize the momentum for his team in the powerplay overs is noteworthy.

Middle-order: The vital core

In the middle order, Sri Lanka boasts Mendis, a stylish right-handed batter with the ability to play graceful strokes all around the ground. Mendis has been a consistent performer for Sri Lanka, and his ability to stabilize the innings after an early dismissal is pivotal. Joining him is the young and talented Charith Asalanka, who has been making waves in Sri Lankan cricket. Asalanka’s adaptability in various batting situations and his potential to play big innings make him a player to watch out for in the tournament. He has been a bright prospect for Sri Lanka.

Adding depth to the middle order is Sadeera Samarawickrama, who not only serves as a backup wicket-keeper but also contributes significantly with the bat. His ability to rotate the strike and find gaps in the field can be instrumental in building ??partnerships during the middle overs.

All-rounders: Dynamic game changers

Sri Lanka’s all-round department is spearheaded by Dhananjaya de Silva, a versatile cricketer who offers both batting solidity and off-spin bowling skills. De Silva’s ability to break partnerships with the ball and stabilize the innings with the bat makes him a valuable asset.

Leading the side as captain, Shanaka is not just a leader but also a game-changer. His explosive batting in the latter stages of the innings is well-documented, and he’s equally effective with his medium-fast bowling. Shanaka’s composure under pressure and leadership skills are expected to play a pivotal role in guiding the team.

Bowlers: Wicket harvesters and game influencers

Sri Lanka’s bowling attack is poised to make a significant impact in the Asia Cup, led by a mix of talented bowlers. Maheesh Theekshana, a young and promising leg-spinner, stands?? out as a potential game-changer. His unique leg-spin variati??ons can befuddle even the best of batter. Theekshana has a deceptive googly and can extract sharp turn from the surface, making him a formidable weapon in the middle overs. His ability to break partnerships and create pressure on the opposition makes him a key asset for Sri Lanka.

Dushan Hemantha, a right-arm leg-spinner, adds depth to the spin department. His leg-spin variations and control over line and length can trouble batter and provide crucial breakthroughs. Hemantha’s ability to exploit the conditions and deceive batter with his flighted deliveries adds a strategic dimension to the bowling attack.

In the fast bowling department, Binura Fernando provides pace and bounce with the new ball. His ability to extract movement in the early overs can provide crucial breakthroughs. Kasun Rajitha is another vital component, known for his ability to swing the ball both ways. His knack for picking up early wic??kets can put the opposition on the back foot.

This? Sri Lankan playing eleven is a well-rounded unit, bringing together a mix of experience and emerging talents. Their performances in the Asia Cup will be closely watched as they aim to make their mark on the international stage.

Also READ: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the Asia Cup 2023

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The first One-Day International (ODI) between New Zealand and Sri Lanka is currently underway at Eden Park in Auckland. Put in to bat first, the Black Caps have posted 274 in 49.3 overs, thanks to explosive opener Finn Allen, middle-order batter Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips.

Allen, in particular, shined with the bat and smashed a half-century as he appeared extremely fluent during his stay. The 23-year-old, however, had a ?big slice of luck in his favour in the early part of his innings.

Allen was on 9 off 6 balls when a delivery from Kasun Rajitha clipped his off stump but didn’t remove the bails. Former New Zealand cricketer Craig McMillan, who was on the air, initially screamed: “Bowled him!” before saying: “No, he hasn’t. Wow… he [the bowler] thought he had as well.”

It all happened during the third over of the New Zealand innings when Rajitha bowled a peach of a delivery which shaped away after pitching and flicked the off-stump on its way to the keeper. However, the bails didn’t come off as all the Lankan players, as well as Allen, were left stunned.

Here is the video:

//twitter.com/sparknzspo??rt/status/1639450145841639424

Allen was eventually dismissed for 51 from 49 deliveries, including 5 fours and 2 sixes. Apart from the opening batter, Mitchell, who recently bagged the Sir Richard Hadlee medal?? in New Zealand Cricket Awards, smashed 47 off 58 ba??lls with the help of 3 fours and 2 maximums. Similarly, Phillips also smacked 42-ball 39 to help the Black Caps reach a respectable total.

After the New Zealand innings, Allen admitted they could’ve pushed the total a bit more but was satisfied with what they posted on the board. He lavished praise on Chamika Karunaratne, who bagged a 4-wicket haul for 43 in 9 overs, stating that the Lankan pacer m??ade i??t tough for the New Zealand batters.

“With the base that we had, we could have looked to push for a few more. It’s certainly a score I think we are pretty happy with on that wicket. It was certainly a tricky wicket. The way Karunaratne bowled through the middle, hit his lengths nice, got a little bit of seam movement and made it tough for us,” said Allen after the end of the first innings.

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The f?irst One-Day International (ODI) between India and Sri Lan?ka is currently underway at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. The hosts lost the toss and were asked to bat first by the Islanders. The decision of Dasun Shanaka, however, went against him as Indian captain Rohit Sharma along with his opening partner Shubman Gill started the proceedings on a flyer.

Both Rohit and Shubman went absolute berserk and demolished the Sri Lanka bowling attack, adding 100 runs for the opening wicket inside 15 overs. During the 7th over, Rohit smacked Kasun Rajitha for a biggie as India reached 50. It all happened on the fourth ball of the over when Rohit danced down the track and clobbered this short ball over deep mid-wicket for th?e second six of the over.

Here is the video:

Isse kehte hai TOOFAANI shot! 💥@ImRo45, we need more of these 🤩#OneFamily #INDvSLpic.twitter.com/nM7abB315B

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) January 10, 2023

Rohit and Shubman formed a scintillating opening partnership of 143 in 19.4 overs. Rohit’s counterpart Shanaka broke the stand after he caught Shubman on the front. It was a good length delivery which nipped back into the right-hander. The 23-year-old shuffled across and went for a flick but missed it completely as the white leather struck on the pad, in front of the middle and leg and umpire Nitin Menon, raised a finger. Shubman was ?dismissed for a well-made 70 runs from 60 balls, including 11 fours.

Soon, Rohit lost his momentum and played on in the 23rd over to debutant Dilshan Madushanka. The 35-year-old was dismissed after scoring 83 from 67 deliver??ies with ??the help of nine fours and three humungous sixes.

Earlier, at the toss, Rohit s??aid about making the basics right, keeping in mind that the ODI World Cup 2023 is not far either.

“We are happy to bat first. We would have liked to bowl as well, it’s a good challenge. The ground was flooded with dew yesterday. There will be times where we need to bowl under dew, we got to be ready for that with the World Cup around the corner. It’s about doing the basics right, it’s important to do things differently at times. We need to keep moving in the right direction. Had a great time playing an ODI here last time, hopefully, we’ll have another memorable game today,” said Rohit.

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