As the Cricket Age published the Sri Lanka A Squad for West Indies tour yesterday, the absence of Leo Kane Fransisco is most surprising, as he has long been touted as the ‘next Wicket keeper batsman’ for the National team!
A dashing left-handed opener from Army Sports Club, Fransisco has been in good form in recent months. He was the fifth highest run scorer in SLC Under 23 provincial Tournament this year, with 295 runs, representing North Western.
Not only as a top order batsman, Fransisco has evolved as a quality wicket-keeper as well, as he had 31 dismissals on his credit in 9 matches of the Premier League Tournament Tier A this year.
But, at higher level, he is still not able to stamp his authority, as chances to represent Sri Lanka A and emerging teams are few and far between. Though, he was the part of victorious team of the emerging Asia Cup and in the President XI team against tourist Bangladesh, but didn’t get chances to play.
Now, selectors have once again ignored him for the west Indies tour of Sri Lanka A. Obviously, Fransisco is disappointed. ” It is the tour, I was waiting for, because it’s big chance to step up to next level” he said.
Though, it will make him more focused and committed, he promised!
