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Sri Lanka names T20 squad for Pakistan series ahead of World Cup

Sri Lanka has announced its squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Pakistan, beginning January 7 in Dambulla. The series serves as a critical final preparation phase for both teams ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup starting in February. The squad, captained by Dasun Shanaka, introduces new players not in the earlier preliminary World Cup squad, increasing competition for final selection. Pakistan, which won the teams' last T20I meeting, is yet to announce its World Cup squad.

Key Points: Sri Lanka T20 squad vs Pakistan for World Cup prep

  • Squad led by Dasun Shanaka
  • Series starts January 7 in Dambulla
  • Final prep before T20 World Cup
  • Includes players not in preliminary World Cup squad
2 min read

Sri Lanka unveils squad for T20 series against Pakistan

Sri Lanka announces its T20 squad led by Dasun Shanaka for the home series against Pakistan, a final tune-up before the ICC T20 World Cup.

"marks a crucial final step in their preparations ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup - ICC website"

New Delhi, January 6

Sri Lanka on Tuesday announced its squad for the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan, starting January 7.

The T20I series begins in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, on Wednesday. The second and third T20Is are scheduled for January 9 and 11, respectively, with all matches taking place in the same venue.

This series marks a crucial final step in their preparations ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7, according to the ICC website. Pakistan is yet to announce their World Cup squad, and both teams look to sharpen their games ahead of the mega event in India and Sri Lanka.

The squad, led by Dasun Shanaka, features a mix of experience and depth, consisting of a few players who were not part of Sri Lanka's earlier preliminary squad for the T20 World Cup. Their inclusion adds further competition for places as Sri Lanka continues to evaluate options ahead of announcing their final squad for the global event.

With the marquee tournament fast approaching, the series offers Sri Lanka a vital opportunity to fine-tune combinations and build momentum against a quality opposition.

Pakistan emerged victorious when these two teams last met in the T20I tri-series final in Rawalpindi.

Sri Lanka T20I squad: Dasun Shanaka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Traveen Mathew, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Eshan Malinga.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As a cricket fan in India, I'm watching this closely. Both teams are our neighbours and potential opponents in the World Cup. Sri Lanka's spin attack with Hasaranga and Theekshana looks strong. Hope the pitches in Dambulla offer a good contest.
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Vikram M
Honestly, Sri Lanka's batting looks a bit shaky on paper compared to Pakistan's firepower. They are relying heavily on the experienced Kusal Perera and Mendis. Their pace attack with Pathirana and Chameera is exciting though. Best of luck to both teams!
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Priya S
The World Cup is in India and Sri Lanka, so these conditions are perfect for preparation. Hope the series is competitive and injury-free for all players. Subcontinent cricket rivalry is always fun to watch! 🇱🇰🇵🇰
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Rohit P
Good squad. But I have a respectful criticism: is Dasun Shanaka the right captain for the T20 format? His own form has been inconsistent. Maybe they should have looked at a younger leader like Charith Asalanka to build for the future.
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Michael C
Interesting to see Eshan Malinga in the squad. A new pace bowler carrying that famous name! The Sri Lankan think tank is clearly trying to find the next generation of match-winners. Pakistan's squad announcement will be key now.

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