Three Sri Lankan players are retained by their franchise team (Desert Vipers) to play in the second edition of the UAE's ILT20 tournament next year, it is learned.

According to the information made available to this Reporter, the three players are all rounder Wanindu Hasaranga, former captain and wicketkeeper, batter Dinesh Chandimal and right-arm fast bowler  Matheesha Pathirana will play the tournament in the UAE in 2024. This will, however, be subject to the clearance from their home board, i.e. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).

They all played in the inaugural ICC-sanctioned tournament in January, February this year.  

Interestingly, former Australian top order batter Tom Moody, who was also the coach and consultant of the national Sri Lankan team is the director of this franchise team and having known these three Sri Lankan players likely has recommended to retain them.

Owned by Lancer Capital, The Desert Vipers team finished as the runners-up at the inaugural ICC ILT20 tournament earlier this year. Sri Lankan spin maestro Wanindu Hasaranga finished amongst the top-five wicket-takers in the 2023 ILT20 tournament. (Bipin Dani)