Sri Lanka have recalled allrounder Seekuge Prasanna and Jeffery Vandersay for the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan in UAE.
Opener Danushka Gunathilika has also been dropped from the squad, as he is set to face six match suspension following misconduct during the Indian series.
The decision of his suspension has been forwarded to the ExCo for approval today.
Cricket Age has learnt that he has been charged for drinking, partying, not going for physio appointments, drinking before fitness test. In all, he is in breach of about 4 clauses of contract and 2 of Constitution.
According to sources, Recommended punishment for his misconduct is suspension from 6 international matches and 20% fine from his contract fees.
Most surprisingly, bowling spearhead Lasith Malinga has also been dropped, as selectors have decided to move on considering the 2019 world cup, Cricket Age has reliably learnt.
“Malinga has not been considered due to current form and in considering Sri Lanka’s 2019 WC aspirations” A top SLC official told Cricket Age.
One of the most destructive Shorter formats bowler world cricket has ever seen, Malinga had been largely out of form Since making a comeback to the national team during T20 series against Australia, earlier in the year. He has taken only 10 wickets in 13 matches since his return.
With 301 wickets from 204 matches at a bowling average of 28.92, Malinga is the fourth leading wicket-taker for Sri Lanka. Interim coach Nic Pothas and ODI captain Upul Tharanga has backed Malinga after indifferent form, by stating that his experience is still valuable to the young team. But, the newly appointed selection committee, led by Graeme Labrooy has made its decision it seems.
The names of Kusal Perera, Asela Gunaratne were not considered, as they are still recovering from the injuries, while former captain Angelo Mathews is also unavailable, as he is not yet fully fit from his Calf Injury.
From the India series, selectors have dropped young leg spinner Wanindu Hasaranga after few mediocre outings, even though he was the best bowler in the ODI’s against Zimbabwe.
Chamara Kapugedera, Milinda Siriwardena and Thisara Perera also retained their place from the last series.
First match of the series will be played at Dubai on 13th October.
Squad :
Upul Tharanga – Captain, Dinesh Chandimal, Niroshan Dickwella, Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Milinda Siriwardana, Chamara Kapugedera, Thisara Perera, Seekkuge Prasanna, Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal, Dushmantha Chameera, Vishwa Fernando, Akila Dananjaya, Jeffrey Vandersay.
