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The 2019 Cricket World Cup was a stage that brought together cricketing talent from across the globe, and the Sri Lankan national cricket team was no exception.
As the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 is about to begin, it’s pertinent to recognize that some prominent Sri Lankan players who graced the 2019 World Cup with their skills will not be part of the upcoming tournament.
Here is the list of players who were part of the Sri Lankan squad in the 2019 ODI World Cup but won’t be included in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Avishka Fernando
Avishka Fernando made a stunning entrance onto the international cricket stage during the 2019 World Cup, captivating fans worldwide with his electrifying batting prowess. His aggressive style at the crease left an indelible mark on the tournament, and he etched his name into cricketing history with several unforgettable innings. However, despite his immense talent and ability to provide explosive starts, circumstances beyond his control have led to his omission from the 2023 World Cup squad.
Lahiru Thirimanne
Lahiru Thirimanne, the elegant left-handed batter, had been a notable inclusion in the 2019 World Cup squad. However, his absence from the 2023 edition has raised eyebrows among cricket fanatics. Thirimanne’s wealth of experience and unwavering technique in the middle order could have provided invaluable stability to the team.
Also READ: Sri Lanka Cricket announces its 15-man squad for the ODI World Cup 2023
Angelo Mathews
Former Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews, renowned as one of Sri Lanka’s most seasoned all-rounders, played a pivotal role in the 2019 World Cup squad. Unfortunately, a series of injuries and persistent form struggles have regrettably sidelined him from the 2023 World Cup.
Jeevan Mendis
Jeevan Mendis, an accomplished all-rounder known for his leg-spin prowess, proudly donned the Sri Lankan jersey during the 2012 T20 World Cup and the 2015 World Cup campaigns. Following a hiatus of three years from international cricket, the 40-year-old made a remarkable comeback when he was selected for the T20I series against Bangladesh in February 2018. Notably, his inclusion extended to Sri Lanka’s 2019 Cricket World Cup squad, where he showcased his skills on the global stage. However, in December 2021, Mendis bid farewell to his illustrious international cricket career, marking the end of an era.
Thisara Parera
Another all-rounder, Thisara Perera, remained integral to the Sri Lankan cricket team for a long time. Remembered for his explosive batting style, the left-handed batter bid farewell to international cricket in 2021.
Isuru Udana
Isuru Udana‘s left-arm fast-medium bowling and ability to deliver powerful blows in the lower order significantly bolstered the Sri Lankan team’s strength during the 2019 World Cup. His presence was noteworthy back then, serving as a vital squad component. Regrettably, he will not be among the contingent for the 2023 World Cup, signalling a shift in the team’s composition.
Milinda Siriwardana
Milinda Siriwardana, a gifted left-handed all-rounder, etched his name in Sri Lanka’s cricketing history with pivotal innings during the 2019 World Cup. His contributions were undeniably significant in crucial moments. Nevertheless, his absence from the 2023 squad creates a noticeable void in the team’s all-round capabilities.
Suranga Lakmal
Suranga Lakmal, a stalwart in Sri Lanka’s pace bowling department, lent his reliability to the 2019 World Cup squad. He played a crucial role with his knack for maintaining control and discipline with the ball. The 36-year-old bowler bid adieu to international cricket in 2022, marking the end of a remarkable career.
Lasith Malinga
Lasith Malinga is undeniably one of the best pacers in cricket history. The retirement of the right-arm pacer signifies a profound void for the team. Malinga’s mastery of deadly yorkers and invaluable experience proved pivotal during the 2019 World Cup. However, regrettably, he bid farewell to international cricket in 2021.
Jeffrey Vandersay
Jeffrey Vandersay, the talented leg-spin bowler, played a crucial role as Sri Lanka’s spin option during the 2019 World Cup. Nevertheless, it is surprising to note that he has not found a place in the squad for the 2023 World Cup, raising questions about the team’s strategic choices for this significant tournament.
Nuwan Pradeep
Nuwan Pradeep, a right-arm fast-medium bowler, left an indelible mark with his remarkable performances during the 2019 World Cup. His pace, accuracy, and ability to swing the ball made him a formidable force on the cricketing field. His contributions were instrumental in Sri Lanka’s campaign, and his memorable moments are etched in the minds of cricket enthusiasts around the globe. However, the 36-year-old won’t don the Sri Lankan jersey in the 2023 World Cup.
