Following their victory in the 2023 World Cup Qualifiers, the Sri Lankan cricket team is now preparing for the main event, which will be held in India later this year. The team’s cricket board is currently conducting trials to select the best players for the World Cup squad. One player who has already proven himself on a global stage is pace bowler Matheesha Pathirana. After impressing for CSK earlier this year, he has now earned a spot in Sri Lanka’s ODI national side.
Likewise, players from different regions of Sri Lanka are showcasing their skills in the ongoing Lankan Premier League (LPL), hoping to catch the selectors’ attention and secure a place in the national team for the World Cup. While established stars like Angelo Mathews are sharpening their form in the LPL, here in this article we take a look at Sri Lanka’s probable squad for the highly anticipated ICC ODI World Cup 2023.
Sri Lanka’s Probable Squad for ICC ODI World Cup 2023
Batters: Pathum Nissanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka
Lately, the Sri Lankan team management has persisted with the opening partnership of Pathum Nissanka and Sadeera Samarawickrama, both right-handed batsmen. These two are likely to be part of the World Cup squad for India, alongside backup opener Dimuth Karunaratne. However, they will prefer Karunaratne, whose left-handed batting will offer an ideal right-left opening combination.
Kusal Mendis, who also provides wicketkeeping capabilities, has solidified his position at number three. In the middle order, Charith Asalanka and Angelo Mathews appear to be the most suitable candidates for Sri Lanka, despite Mathews being left out of the Qualifier squad recently. Asalanka brings an additional bowling option with his part-time spin during the middle overs.
All-Rounders: Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga
Dhananjaya de Silva stands as a cornerstone of the Sri Lankan batting lineup. His exceptional form will likely continue in the World Cup. To reach the semifinals, Captain Shanaka’s contributions with both bat and ball will be crucial. He assumes another pivotal role in this lineup.
Wanindu Hasaranga, on the other hand, has evolved into a genuine all-rounder in recent times, transitioning from being primarily a spinner. His ability to wield the bat and forge partnerships in case of a top-order collapse adds depth to the team.
Bowlers: Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Chamika Karunaratne, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara
Sri Lanka’s cricket team boasts a formidable bowling department, particularly when it comes to their spinners. When they take on India, known for its turning wickets, Sri Lanka is expected to unleash their spin attack to the fullest. One player to watch out for is Maheesh Theekshana, who has made a name for himself in the IPL with his exceptional performances. Another key asset is Dushan Hemantha, a talented spinner who also possesses impressive batting skills.
On the other hand, Sri Lanka’s pace attack is not to be underestimated. The team will rely on a formidable group of fast bowlers consisting of Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Chamika Karunaratne, Kasun Rajitha, and Lahiru Kumara. With this well-balanced bowling department comprising both spin and pace options, Sri Lanka aims to challenge the Indian batsmen and make an impact in the upcoming matches.
Also Read: ICC ODI World Cup 2023 India Probable Squad: Samson & Surya to Play in Place of Iyer & Rahul
Sri Lanka’s Predicted Playing 11 for ICC ODI World Cup 2023
- Pathum Nissanka
- Dimuth Karunaratne
- Kusal Mendis (wk)
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Charith Asalanka
- Dhananjaya de Silva
- Dasun Shanaka (c)
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Dushmantha Chameera
- Kasun Rajitha