Chandimal named captain for the South Africa series, despite a possible suspension

Dinesh Chandimal has been retained captain for the two-match Test series against South Africa even though his participation remains uncertain due to a possible suspension on disciplinary grounds.

Suranga Lakmal, the vice-captain has been kept stand-by to lead the side, in the event, Chandimal gets an International Cricket Council suspension over his role in delaying the play on day three of the second Test against West Indies in St. Lucia. Chandimal along with coach Chandika Hathurusingha and Manager Asanka Gurusingha pleaded guilty for the charges and will hear their fate on July 10.

The trio faces a minimum punishment of two Tests. The only surprise in the team is the inclusion of Lakshan Sandakan who replaces Jeffrey Vandersay. Vandersay who was part of the West Indies tour was sent home early from the tour on disciplinary grounds.

Rangana Herath who missed the third Test in West Indies due to a split webbing has been named subject to fitness along with Kusal Perera. Angelo Mathews has returned to the side having missed the last two Tests against the West Indies due to personal reasons. Also back in the side is Dimuth Karunaratne replacing Mahela Udwatte who failed to impress the selectors in his first three outings. He had a great outing for Sri Lanka A in Bangladesh having returned to the side following a fractured figure.

Lakmal will led the pace pack with Lahiru Kumara and Kasun Rajitha. There was no place for Lahiru Gamage who played the first Test in the West Indies.

Sri Lanka Test squad

Dinesh Chandimal (capt), Angelo Mathews, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera (subject to fitness), Danushka Gunathilaka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Roshen Silva, Niroshan Dickwella, Rangana Herath (subject to fitness), Suranga Lakmal (vice capt), Dilruwan Perera, Akila Dananjaya, Lahiru Kumara, Lakshan Sandakan, Kasun Rajitha