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Sri Lanka are set to begin a fresh chapter in their red-ball journey as they gear up to face Bangladesh in a two-match Test series starting June 17 at the iconic Galle International Stadium. The series marks the beginning of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle and carries extra emotional weight for Sri Lankan cricket fans — as a veteran all-rounder will play his final Test in whites.
Angelo Mathews set for emotional farewell
After more than 15 years of stellar service, Angelo Mathews will bring down the curtain on his illustrious Test career following the opening Test of the series. The 37-year-old has been a pivotal figure in Sri Lankan cricket, with his calm temperament, crucial contributions with the bat, and occasional breakthroughs with the ball. His farewell Test is expected to be an emotional occasion, not just for him and his teammates, but for fans across the island.
Drastic changes after home series defeat
Following a dismal 2-0 series loss to Australia at home, Sri Lanka have rung in the changes with an 18-member squad that reflects both boldness and vision. Five players who were part of the Australian series — Sadeera Samarawickrama, Ramesh Mendis, Nishan Peiris, Vishwa Fernando, and Jeffrey Vandersay — have been left out following underwhelming performances.
In their place, Sri Lanka have introduced six uncapped players into the Test set-up: Lahiru Udara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Pawan Rathnayake, Tharindu Ratnayake , and Isitha Wijesundara — signaling a generational shift in strategy.
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Experienced all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva will lead the team, continuing in his leadership role after recent stints. Notably, fast bowler Lahiru Kumara has also been picked in the squad but is set to miss the first Test due to injury concerns.
Sri Lanka squad for Bangladesh Test series:
Pathum Nissanka, Oshada Fernando, Lahiru Udara, Dinesh Chandimal (wk), Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Pawan Rathnayake, Prabath Jayasuriya, Tharindu Ratna Akilaya, Dan Milan, Rathyana, Rajana Asitha Fernando, Kasun Rajitha, Isitha Wijesundara
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