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Selectors deny favoritism in Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup squad selection

13 May 2024 02:07 pm - 30 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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Colombo, May 13 (Daily Mirror) - While denying any favoritism during the selection of players for the Sri Lanka squad in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, Sri Lanka Cricket Selection Committee Chairman Upul Tharanga said the Sri Lanka team is in a good position to challenge any team at the World Cup to be held in the West Indies and USA.

At a media briefing held to address various concerns regarding the Sri Lanka T20 squad for the World Cup, Tharanga said there was no favoritism in the selection process except for talent, fitness and discipline of players. He said the 15-member squad named for the World Cup is balanced and powerful.

Responding to injury concerns about skipper Wanindu Hasaranga and fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana, Tharanga said both players are fit for the tournament.

When questioned about the inclusion of Dunith Wellalage in the squad, Tharanga highlighted his all-round performance and the potential advantage for the team in conditions like those in the US.

"Dunith is a left-arm spinner and we can utilise him even in the power play," he said.

Regarding the selection of Dananjaya de Silva in the 15-member squad and Bhanuka Rajapaksa as travelling reserves, Tharanga explained it was a decision made after extensive discussions with all selectors, coaches and the captian.

"Dhananjaya is a good all-rounder, so we chose to include him over Bhanuka," he clarified.

When asked about the utilisation of the three main all-rounders - Dhananjaya, Angelo Mathews and Dasun Shanaka in the squad, Tharanga said that Mathews and Shanaka will be given priority in the playing 11 over Dhananjaya de Silva.

Responding to inquiries about Kusal Janith Perera's absence from the squad, the Chief Selector expressed regret, citing recent form despite his talent.

Despite Kusal and Bhanuka being not included in the squad, Tharanga emphasized the squad's strong batting lineup with players like Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka and Dasun Shanaka.

Regarding Matheesha Pathirana's injury, Tharanga said that medical reports indicate Pathirana can participate in the entire tournament.

Speaking about the addition of Vijayakanth Viyaskanth as travelling reserves, the selectors believed he can be useful in the playing conditions in the West Indies.

Selector Ajantha Mendis said Viyaskanth's strong performance compared to spinners Akila Dananjaya and Jafrey Vandersay was a reason for adding him as traveyling reserves.

When asked whether the selectors had overlooked discipline when selecting players for the squad, Tharanga denied the claims and said discipline was a crucial factor.

"We consider the players' discipline because they represent our country, and any misbehaviour not only affects the team but also our country's reputation," Tharanga affirmed.

The Sri Lanka team will leave tomorrow for the USA for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024.

Pix by Kithsiri De Mel

Comments - 30

senibola Monday, 13 May 2024 02:22 PM

Pls take a screenshot. Return to the motherland after few matches. U guys can keep bragging. A national team which is nothing national.

Ram Monday, 13 May 2024 03:17 PM

When the pool to select from is wide and competitive it is hard to select a team. In my mind the team selected is acceptable

Dr Analyticus Monday, 13 May 2024 04:04 PM

This is a very good team selection. I agree KJP doesn't deserve a place in the squad. In my opinion this team should beat even Pak, Eng, NZ

Nilmini Welivita Monday, 13 May 2024 04:21 PM

These guys are not only a bunch of losers but they also bring disrepute to our nation. Stop funding these ill-disciplined team.

Gama kana selectors Monday, 13 May 2024 04:22 PM

Now that you chose him, use Dunith in power play and send a batter as an impact player, if this rule is applicable. As he ain't a batter in the modern game expectation.

Dee Monday, 13 May 2024 04:27 PM

We don't have a legitimate power hitter, and we already lost the world cup. It should have included Bhanuka. Observe how teams like England and Australia bat. Without formidable power hitters, we have no chance. Dasun was never successful.

Team is good Monday, 13 May 2024 04:33 PM

The team looks good. Let's go for it.

Baappa Monday, 13 May 2024 05:29 PM

When someone is in form, please take him. Bhanuka should be in.

I A M mahadanamuttha Monday, 13 May 2024 05:33 PM

It is favoritism indeed !! How come they sekected a ageing cricketer like Angelo Mathew's ? Plenty of young guys for T20 iso this ageing Angelo !!! At his present age he is a pax in the team as he is a liability to the SL team he is a half batter

Only what is in the pot will come in the ladel. Monday, 13 May 2024 05:56 PM

I am a huge cricket fan

Rest of the message evaporated 1st time. Monday, 13 May 2024 09:56 PM

I am a huge cricket fan

Team Monday, 13 May 2024 06:05 PM

This is the best team we have at the moment. So let see what they can do.

Shihab Akill Daiyan(Puttalam) Monday, 13 May 2024 07:12 PM

No words top explain just all the very best to our team.... The rest would be done by our boys... They will bring the 2024 WC just like 2014.... Let's keep our fingers crossed!

Gnyaana Kathaa Monday, 13 May 2024 07:42 PM

Pls don't ket the captain open his mouth to mics

Inshi Monday, 13 May 2024 07:55 PM

Good luck Sri Lanka. Competition will be stiff but if the team clicks the chances are very high. Please play sensibly and don't gift your wickets, bowl with pace, guile and accuracy and field better than your opponents.

Navi Monday, 13 May 2024 07:57 PM

Angelo ??????? Has not shown any accelration. A 120 SR is medicore these days. Experience is not a criterion. Shanaka, after a blistering knock at the trials is a flash in the pan. Not consistent. Takes time to settle. Good for Limited overs. So is Banuka. After a string of failures a Flash in the Pan innings does not merit. No consistency. He only got a fan club backing in the media. Sadeera

Gayan Monday, 13 May 2024 08:35 PM

Apart from Mathews rest is ok.

Only what is in the pot will come in the ladel Monday, 13 May 2024 09:59 PM

I am a huge cricket fan

Anthony. R Monday, 13 May 2024 10:56 PM

Wish all the very best to our team. Banuka could have been a better choice instead of Dasun Shanaka, he was never successful

pantha Monday, 13 May 2024 10:56 PM

When we won the World Cup there was no political interference. Sadly today our Sports Minister decides who should be in the team. I thank Arjuna,Sarath, Murali(anti tamil),Aravinda for the success.

Cricket lover Monday, 13 May 2024 11:00 PM

Why not take Namal, Prasanna, Johnston, Mahinda, Gota, Basil to our team.

Nimesh Sahabandhu Monday, 13 May 2024 11:34 PM

What a joke Bhanuka should have been included

Andrew Silva Tuesday, 14 May 2024 05:59 AM

The result will paint the picture.

Bishop Tuesday, 14 May 2024 09:18 AM

When the rule above selection committe is highly corrupt and their actions were under scrutiny but no change happened in time, that adversary affects the sport.

Islandboy Tuesday, 14 May 2024 10:16 AM

Kindly request the players not to use Tinder. We don't want unnecessary distractions and lawsuits.

Arnold Tuesday, 14 May 2024 11:13 AM

How much is the baseball version going to be an attraction with javelin throwing from the edge of the line to imported turfs? No way to survive long.

DJ Tuesday, 14 May 2024 03:59 PM

It has forever been favouritism. This committee is just for the public.

Ranjan Senevi Wednesday, 15 May 2024 01:31 PM

Mathews ana Shanka are not fit to play 20/20.. and both do not deserve a spot in the team. Wellalage is another crap.

DJ Wednesday, 15 May 2024 08:55 PM

Spot on.

Wilfred Gnanam Thursday, 16 May 2024 09:34 PM

This is the norm in Good Lanka. Whoever is in a position to help a relative and friend is selected. No big deal. Talk something new/

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Selectors deny favoritism in Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup squad selection

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