Lasith Malinga to lead Sri Lanka in fourth ODI

by Champika Fernando

Misfiring seamer Lasith Malinga has been handed the captaincy for the fourth ODI against India after doubts remain over the fitness of stand-in skipper Chamara Kapugedara who led Sri Lanka in the third ODI. 

Kapugedara who was appointed Sri Lanka’s stand-in-skipper after regular skipper Upul Tharanga received a two-match ban for a serious violation of slow-overate during the second ODI has aggravated a back injury during the third ODI in Pallekele.  Sources said even though he has not been ruled out yet, the chances of him regaining his fitness ahead of Thursday's clash is doubtful. 

"We have appointed Lasith Malinga to lead the side," said Chairman of Selectors Sanath Jayasuriya.  Malinga led Sri Lanka to T20 World title in 2014, country's second global trophy after the 1996 World Cup victory. Malinga is one wicket away from reaching 300 wickets in limited-over cricket. 

India lead the five-match series 3-0 with two matches to go.