Angelo Mathews named Sri Lanka’s stand-in captain for West Indies T20Is

Angelo Mathews has been named as Sri Lanka’s stand-in captain for the upcoming T20I series against the West Indies, starting Wednesday, March 3. Dasun Shanaka, who was earlier appointed as the skipper for the series, has been facing transit visa issues in the United States of America (USA).

Shanaka is expected to join when the visa issues are resolved. Earlier this week, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), in a release, updated on Shanaka and his problems with visas. SLC also stated that it has been working to get Shanaka’s issues solved at the earliest.

Sri Lanka Cricket working with Shanaka

“Shanaka confronted this issue pursuant to the loss of his passport, which had a valid visa for the USA stamped on it. Sri Lanka Cricket is working closely with the relevant authorities to get the visa issue of Shanaka sorted, quickly as possible. He is expected to join the team once the issue is resolved,” the board said in the release, reported by Cricbuzz.

Sri Lanka have already been faced with troubles before the tour of the Caribbean. Lahiru Kumara, their premier fast bowler, tested positive for COVID-19 before departure. He had to be replaced with veteran speedster Suranga Lakmal.

“Following PCR Tests carried out on the squad nominated to take part in the white ball’ segment of the tour of West Indies, Lahiru Kumara has tested positive for Covid-19,” a media release was quoted as saying.

“Immediately upon identification, Lahiru Kumara has been directed to follow the Government’s health protocol laid out on Covid-19. Sri Lanka Cricket will continue with normal operations, adhering to the stipulated Health Protocols,” the statement added.

Prior to Kumar falling prey, head coach Mickey Arthur and left-handed top-order batsman Lahiru Thirimanne had returned coronavirus positive tests.  Chamika Karunaratne and Binura Fernando were removed from the training unit after COVID-19 positive tests in the month of January.

The upcoming T20Is are set to be held at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua. Thereafter, the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua, will play host to the three ODIs, starting Wednesday, March 10.

It will be followed by a two-day practice game at the Coolidge Cricket Ground followed by the two Tests at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.