Galle Test : Sri Lanka confirm key batting & bowling changes
Sri Lanka Head Coach Sanath Jayasuriya has confirmed several changes to the national team’s lineup, particularly in the batting order, ahead of the upcoming Test in Galle.
Kamindu Mendis, who has been performing consistently, will receive a well-deserved promotion to the number five position.
Jayasuriya emphasized that Mendis will be gradually eased into the middle order, rather than being placed at the critical number three position. “You can’t bring someone like Kamindu Mendis to number three suddenly,” said Jayasuriya, highlighting the need to allow Mendis time to settle in his new role.
Dinesh Chandimal, known for his experience and versatility, has agreed to step into the number three spot. The coach praised Chandimal’s selflessness in taking on this responsibility, saying, “He needs to be thanked for thinking about the team and agreeing to play at number three.
Kusal Mendis will move down to number seven and will keep wickets.
“As a long-term measure, we need our keeper to bat at 7, it’s not easy to bat higher up the order if you keep for long hours” Jayasuriya said.
In terms of bowling, Ramesh Mendis will join the team as the second spinner, supporting the Galle-friendly spin conditions. Fast bowler Milan Ratnayake, who had impressed during the tour of England, will miss out, as Jayasuriya explained the team cannot afford to play three fast bowlers in Galle. “He understands the situation and the need for balance in the team,” the coach stated.
Asitha Fernando and Lahiru Kumara will be the two fast bowlers for the match.
New Zealand Tour of Sri Lanka 2024
Sri Lanka Playing XI for the 1st Test Match
1. Dimuth Karunaratne
2. Pathum Nissanka
3. Dinesh Chandimal
4. Angelo Mathews
5. Kamindu Mendis
6. Dhananjaya De Silva, Captain
7. Kusal Mendis
8. Ramesh Mendis
9. Prabath Jayasuriya
10. Lahiru Kumara
11. Asitha Fernando
2024-09-17
