Australian series good exposure for Sri Lanka ahead of World Cup

by Rex Clementine

Given Sri Lanka’s impressive run in last year’s T-20 World Cup in UAE, there’s new hope that the young team that the selectors backed will turn things around. Dasun Shanaka’s side will have a very good exposure ahead of the World Cup when they take on the World Champions in a five game series starting on Friday.

“It’s very important for us to get a feel about the conditions and all. Good opportunity for batters to get into runs. It will give a good idea for the bowlers on which lengths to bowl. I am sure all players will enjoy the exposure. Of course it’s a challenge as we are taking on the World Champions,” Dasun Shanaka told a media briefing from Sydney.

One of Sri Lanka’s success stories during the World Cup was the emergence of Charith Asalanka. The diminutive left-hander soaked in the pressure well and came up with several match winning performances as Sri Lanka were able to test leading contenders like England and South Africa while beating defending champions West Indies.

After the series, former great Kumar Sangakkara too anointed Asalanka as his successor at number three. However, reading skipper Shanaka’s press conference between the lines, it seems that there has been some talk to move him down the order. If that happens that should be added to the long list of comedy of errors our cricket has witnessed in recent times.

“We had quite a few left-handers during the World Cup. When we were setting up the line-up for this series, we have an issue with left-handers. We may change a bit but personally I am keen on getting him to bat at number three,” Shanaka explained.

Shanaka also revealed that Kusal Mendis had tested positive for COVID and there is a possibility of Dinesh Chandimal stepping up as wicketkeeper. Kamil Mishara is in the squad as reserve wicketkeeper. Kusal Janith Perera had kept wickets for Sri Lanka during the World Cup.

The Sri Lankan side is in Sydney at the moment and has been training at the Olympic Village, a venue that has fond memories for Sri Lankans as it was here Susanthika Jayasinghe won an Olympic medal in 2000.

Match Schedule and timing

11th February 1st T-20 at SCG at 1:40pm

13th February 2nd T-20 at SCG at 1:40pm

15th February 3rd T-20 at Canberra at 1:40pm

18th February 4th T-20 at MCG at 1:40pm

20th February 5th T-20 at MCG at 11:40 am