Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya admitted he had anticipated one of many prime three batters to play by the innings to submit a aggressive rating forward of in the present day’s decisive sport on the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The three-match T20I sequence is at the moment tied 1-1, with the ultimate match scheduled for Wednesday, July 16.
The pinnacle coach additionally expressed issues in regards to the top-order batting and emphasised the necessity to finalize the line-up forward of the subsequent T20 World Cup, slated to be held at residence alongside co-hosts India within the 12 months 2026. This focus influenced the inclusion of Dinesh Chandimal, whom he hinted could also be deployed on the essential No. 3 place.
“Chandimal is again within the T20 squad following a 3-year sidelining, and importantly we’ve got recognized the worth enter this very skilled batsman packs. He has been an asset to Sri Lanka performing properly at take a look at match degree the place the satisfying issue about him has been that he has accomplished precisely what we count on of him for the crew. Due to this fact, I imagine that Chandimal is a participant able to taking up accountability to maximise his contribution with the bat and can be an asset to the crew,” mentioned Jayasuriya in a launch by Sri Lanka Cricket.
The hard-hitting opener Avishka Fernando made a much-anticipated return after an extended absence. Notably, he scored a vital century within the 2019 World Cup when others faltered, one in all solely two World Cup lots of by Sri Lankan batters, alongside Angelo Mathews.
“Avishka is a really proficient batsman with each ability. There isn’t any doubt about his ability. However the unlucky factor is that Avishka’s failure has been psychological slightly than ability, after which that may be a downside,” expressed the previous all-rounder.
Moreover, Dunith Wellalage has been saved underneath wraps and never given constant alternatives, regardless of proving to be a match-winner on the Premadasa Stadium. The pinnacle coach defined that Wellalage’s inclusion largely is determined by the pitch situations. He stays optimistic that the crew is concentrated on atoning for his or her earlier defeat and is set to optimize their efficiency.
