Uncapped Udara and Dinusha Selected for Sri Lanka's Test Squad Against Australia

Synopsis

Sri Lanka has finalized its 18-member squad for the Warne-Murali Test Series against Australia, commencing on January 29 in Galle. This series, part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle, marks an opportunity for Sri Lanka to improve their standings while Australia seeks to maintain their stronghold.

Key Takeaways

18-member squad announced for Sri Lanka.
Dhananjaya de Silva to captain the team.
Key players Nissanka, Mendis included despite injuries.
Uncapped players Udara and Dinusha added for coverage.
Series crucial for Sri Lanka's WTC standing.

Colombo, Jan 24 (NationPress) Sri Lanka has revealed an 18-member squad to challenge Australia in the forthcoming Warne-Murali Test Series, set to commence on January 29 in Galle. This two-match Test series will also mark the concluding series of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. For Sri Lanka, this series presents a prime opportunity to elevate their position in the WTC standings, while Australia, already confirmed a spot in the WTC Final, aims to uphold their supremacy.

The Sri Lankan selectors have assembled a formidable 18-man squad, with Dhananjaya de Silva at the helm. Prominent players such as Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Dhananjaya de Silva himself faced injury concerns but have been selected, highlighting their significance in the team's game plan.

Although Nissanka’s ongoing groin injury might restrict his involvement, the selection of uncapped talents Lahiru Udara and Sonal Dinusha guarantees the squad possesses sufficient backup. The team features a mix of seasoned players like Angelo Mathews, Dimuth Karunaratne, and Dinesh Chandimal, along with rising stars such as Kamindu Mendis and Milan Rathnayake.

The two-Test series will unfold at the renowned Galle International Stadium, a venue celebrated for its spin-friendly environment, which could be crucial for Sri Lanka's tactical approach. Spin bowlers like Prabath Jayasuriya, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Nishan Peiris are anticipated to play vital roles. Meanwhile, the Australian side is grappling with their own injury issues, particularly the absence of regular captain Pat Cummins, who is out due to an ankle injury. Steve Smith will take over as captain in his absence. Smith, recuperating from an elbow injury he sustained during the Big Bash League, provides essential experience and steadiness to the team.

Australia's impressive performance in the WTC cycle has already ensured their place in the final against South Africa in June. However, they will not underestimate this series as the spin-heavy conditions in Galle will challenge their adaptability, especially without Cummins leading the pace attack.

For Sri Lanka, this series represents a golden opportunity to make significant gains in the WTC standings. Currently sitting in fifth place, a series victory could potentially allow Sri Lanka to overtake New Zealand and possibly India, depending on other outcomes.

Sri Lanka Test squad for Australia series:

Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Oshada Fernando, Lahiru Udara, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sonal Dinusha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nishan Peiris, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara.