by Champika Fernando

Paceman Suranga Lakmal has been named vice-captain of the national Test side for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh. Lakaml currently the leading fast bowler in the Sri Lanka side having played 42 matches. He has taken 96 test wickets at 44.94 with a best of 5 for 63.

The 16-man squad also see the returns of Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Mendis and Lahiru Kumara. There was no place for all-rounder Asela Gunaratne in the Test side despite having a healthy average of over 56 in his short Test career.

Meanwhile, the selectors have also brought in uncapped spinner Akila Dananjaya into the Test side. Dananjaya has been a regularly featured in the limited-overs sides in recent months but it's the first time, the 24-year-old gets a call-up for the Test side.

The first test match will be played from January 31 to February 4 at the ZACS, Chittagong, while the second test match will be played from February 8-12 at SBNCS, Dhaka.

Tes Squad: 
Dinesh Chandimal – Captain, Dimuth Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Niroshan Dickwella
Roshen Silva, Rangana Herath, Suranga Lakmal – Vice Captain, Dilruwan Perera, Dushmantha Chameera, Lakshan Sandakan, Akila Dananjaya, Lahiru Gamage, Lahiru Kumara