Sri Lanka finalise T20 World Cup squad as middle-order questions persist

The headline decision is the omission of Test captain Dhananjaya de Silva, whose return to T20 internationals failed to convince selectors. He scored just 43 runs in three innings and struggled for tempo, including an 11-ball 12 against England, prompting his exclusion.

Kamindu Mendis returns in his place, despite modest recent numbers. While his batting form has dipped, his ambidextrous bowling provides balance similar to de Silva's, a factor clearly valued by the selectors.

Youth and potential also feature heavily in the inclusions of Pavan Rathnayake and Dunith Wellalage. Rathnayake's recent ODI century against England played a major role in his selection despite limited T20 exposure, while Wellalage continues to be viewed as a long-term all-round option, particularly on spin-friendly surfaces.

Sri Lanka's middle order remains a concern. While Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara and Kusal Mendis are settled at the top, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka and Kusal Perera arrive without consistent form, even if Perera's strike rate suggests he can still make an impact.

Bowling, however, appears a strength. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana lead the spin attack, while Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana and the injured-but-included Eshan Malinga offer pace depth.

Co-hosts Sri Lanka begin their Group B campaign at home against Ireland, alongside matches versus Australia, Oman and Zimbabwe, hoping familiarity with conditions offsets lingering batting uncertainties.

Sri Lanka T20 World Cup squad: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga.

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