National cap Sadeera to lead Sri Lanka ‘A’ in Tri-Nation Series
Sadeera Samarawickrama
The 16-man Sri Lanka ‘A’ squad led by national cap Sadeera Samarawickrema left the island last afternoon for the upcoming Tri-Nation One Day Series in the United Arab Emirates, beginning April 13. The tournament, hosted by the Afghanistan will include Sri Lanka ‘A’, Ireland ‘A’, and Afghanistan ‘A’.
The competition kicks off with Sri Lanka ‘A’ facing Ireland ‘A’ on April 13, followed by a match against Afghanistan ‘A’ on April 15. Each team will play two matches against the others, with the top two teams advancing to the final on April 25.
The squad features all-rounders Nuwanidu Fernando and Sahan Arachchige, both with national ODI experience. Nuwanidu, who has played five ODIs, has previously captained the ‘A’ team. The bowling attack is spearheaded by left-arm quick Dilshan Madushanka (45 wickets in 26 ODIs) and right-arm seamer Milan Rathnayake, who brings Test experience and lower-order batting capability. Additional pace options include Chamindu Wickramasinghe and Mohamed Shiraz, who recently made his ODI debut.
Youngsters Sonal Dinusha and Pawan Ratnayake have secured spots following strong performances in recent ‘A’ team matches and the National Super League tournament. The spin department features leg-spinner Dushan Hemantha and off-spinner Tharindu Rathnayake, each with five ODI appearances, alongside newcomers Wanuja Sahan and Nipun Ransika, the latter having impressed at the Hong Kong Sixes with his ambidextrous spin.
The batting lineup is further strengthened by in-form openers Kamil Mishara, Lasith Croospulle, and Lahiru Udara, while former ‘A’ team captain Pasindu Sooriyabandara returns to the squad. The team departed for the UAE Thursday, with former Sri Lanka opener Avishka Gunawardena serving as head coach.
| Sri Lanka ‘A’ Squad | |
| Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Lasith Croospulle, Nuwanidu Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama (Captain), Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Pawan Ratnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Sonal Dinusha, Dushan Hemantha, Tharindu Rathnayake, Wanuja Sahan, Milan Rathnayake, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz |
| Sri Lanka ‘A’ Tri Nation Schedule | |
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