Bhanuka returns to SL T20I Squad for WI series

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya 

Bhanuka Rajapaksa has been recalled to the Sri Lanka T20I Squad, which will be captained by Charith Asalanka for the upcoming three-match series against the West Indies. 

The matches are set to take place on October 13, 15, and 17 in Dambulla, with Dasun Shanaka left out from the squad. From the team that beat India 2-1 in the T20Is in July, Shanaka and pacer Dushmantha Chameera were the only ones to miss out.

The Sri Lankan batting line-up boasts a blend of experience and youth, with Rajapaksa making his return for the first time since January 2023. 

On the bowling front, Sri Lanka features a diverse attack that effectively combines spin and pace. Wanindu Hasaranga will lead the spin department, supported by Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage and Jeffrey Vandersay. 
Vandersay, who excelled in the ODI series against India in August with a career-best 6/33, is set to make his T20I return after over two years.

The pace attack includes Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Binura Fernando, and Asitha Fernando, adding depth and variety to the squad.

Meanwhile, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has also announced its T20I Squad, which is missing several key players, including Nicholas Pooran and Andre Russell. Rovman Powell will lead the West Indies, with Roston Chase serving as vice-captain. 

The series marks the beginning of the West Indies’ tour, which will also include three ODIs on October 20, 23, and 26 in Pallekele.

Sri Lanka T20I Squad: Charith Asalanka (Captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Binura Fernando and Asitha Fernando.