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Sri Lanka have revealed an 18-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Australia, concluding the ICC World Test Championship 2023–25 cycle. With the matches set to be held at Galle, a venue known for its spin-friendly conditions, the hosts are aiming for a strong finish to their campaign.
Dhananjaya de Silva will lead Sri Lanka
Captain Dhananjaya de Silva, opener Pathum Nissanka and middle-order batter Kamindu Mendis, who were injury concerns, have all been included. However, Nissanka remains doubtful due to a recurring groin injury, prompting selectors to add depth to the squad. The inclusion of Lahiru Udara and Sonal Dinusha, both uncapped in Tests, signals Sri Lanka’s intent to build for the future.
Udara, a promising batter with T20I experience, and Dinusha, an all-rounder offering versatility, are in contention for their maiden Test caps. The selectors have also made strategic changes, dropping left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya and pacer Kasun Rajitha, replacing them with wrist-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay and the two newcomers. These changes underscore Sri Lanka’s focus on utilizing the conditions effectively and maximizing their chances against the reigning World Test Champions.
With this blend of experience and youth, Sri Lanka aim to create a squad capable of competing against a formidable Australian lineup, even in the absence of their regular captain, Pat Cummins. Australia, however, will still pose a significant challenge under the leadership of Steve Smith, who has recovered from an elbow injury to lead his side in both this series and their Champions Trophy campaign.
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High stakes as Sri Lanka seeks a strong finish in the WTC 2023-25 cycle
This series carries immense significance for Sri Lanka as they look to improve their position in the World Test Championship standings. Currently ranked fifth, Sri Lanka have a slim chance of surpassing both New Zealand and India, provided they secure a comprehensive victory against Australia. The Galle pitch, known for its spin-friendly nature, will likely play a pivotal role, with Sri Lanka banking on their spinners to trouble Australia’s batting lineup. For the visitors, the series serves as preparation for the WTC final against South Africa in June 2025.
Australia’s batting will be bolstered by the return of stand-in skipper Smith, while the absence of Pat Cummins could test their depth in the bowling department. Sri Lanka’s ability to capitalize on home conditions and Australia’s potential vulnerability without their first-choice captain will be crucial in determining the outcome. Both teams will look to end the qualification phase on a high, with Sri Lanka aiming to make a statement against the world’s top-ranked side.
Sri Lanka’s squad for the two-match Test series against Australia
Dhananjaya de Silva (C), Dimuth Karunaratne, Pathum Nissanka, Oshada Fernando, Lahiru Udara, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sonal Dinusha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nishan Peiris, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Milan Rathnayake.
