Teenager Hasaranga gets maiden call-up

Youth cricketer Wanidu Hasaranga has been drafted into the 13-man squad for the first two ODI’s starting on Friday in Galle against Zimbabwe. Hasaranga, a former Richmond College cricketer is a leg-spinning allrounder and comes into the side along with Akila Dhananjaya who is returning to the national fold after five years.

Hasaranga has scored 775 runs at 45.58 in 12 first-class matches for CCC and has taken 16 wickets including a five-wicket haul.

offspinner Dhananjaya played the 2012 T20 World Cup in Colombo and a single ODI game the same year. He was not considered for selection thereafter.

“He has been bowling well since of late and he is an asset with so many varieties. We are very much hopeful of using him against Zimbabwe. He’s been performing well and knocking on the door for sometime now and I’m glad that the selectors gave this opportunity. “ Angelo Mathews said at a press conference to announce the tour.

Sri Lanka squad

Angelo Mathews (Captain), Upul Tharanga, Niroshan Dickwella, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Mendis, Asela Gunarathne, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Madushanka, Akila Dhananjaya, Lakshan Sandakan, Nuwan Pradeep, Dushmantha Chameera, Lasith Malinga 

Absence from the team are Dinesh Chandimal, Thisara Perera, Chamara Kapugedara, Nuwan Kulasekara, Dhananjaya De Silva Kusal Janith Perera and Seekkuge Prasanna.

“I’m quite happy with the squad given to me. It is balanced and I hope we can get off to a winning start against Zimbabwe.” Mathews said.

While Dushmantha Chameera and Lahiru Madushanka come into the side, there’s no place for seamer Lahiru Kumara in the squad.
Sri Lanka play five ODIs and one-off Test against Zimbabwe.