Sri Lanka announce 15-man squad for Zimbabwe Tests

Sri Lanka today announced the 15-man squad for the two-Test series in Zimbabwe. We will get to see a rejuvenated Sri Lankan pace lineup as there are three new faces in the fast bowling attack. Lahiru Gamage, who played ODIs against India in 2014 has been included in the squad along with Lahiru Kumara, Kasun Madhushanka. Middle order batsman Asela Gunarathne also finds a place in the squad.

Lahiru Kumara who was a part of Sri Lankan U19 squad that made into the semis of the Under-19 World Cup this year in Bangladesh. He was impressive in England picking 13 wickets in 2 Tests playing for U19. He made his first-class debut against West Indies A in October 2016 where he picked 3 wickets at 62 apiece.

25-year old Madhushanka has been a first-class veteran with 136 wickets against his name in 48 matches. Gunarathne, who has played 1 T20I against India at Vizag has got a bright chance to make it count with the Test call-up.

Nuwan Pradeep who is yet to recover from the hamstring injury is left out along with Dinesh Chandimal who has not recovered from thumb surgery. The spin trio of Rangana Herath, Dilruwan Perera and Lakshan Sandakan who bamboozled the touring Australian team at home retain their places. Niroshan Dickwella has been chosen as backup keeper.

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Sri Lanka play 2 Tests at Harare before a tri-series which includes West Indies as the third team. They’ll be looking to carry on the momentum after whitewashing Australia. The first Test starts on 29th October.

Sri Lanka squad:

Angelo Mathews (C), Dimuth Karunarathne, Kaushal Silva, Kusal Janith Perera, Kusal Mendis, Dhananjaya De Silva, Niroshan Dickwella, Asela Gunarathne, Rangana Herath, Dilruwan Perera, Lakshan Sandakan, Lahiru Gamage, Lahiru Kumara, Suranga Lakmal, Kasun Madushanka.