The former Sri Lankan Test player turned coach Dulip Samaraweera finds himself embroiled in a soup as Cricket Australia has slapped yet another ban on him following his allegations of offensive behavior towards another player while coaching.  Samaraweera, who was previously handed a 20-year ban from the governing body due to his inappropriate conduct towards a female player faces another allegation this time around.

Unmasking the details of his second offense as a coach

The second offense that was supposedly committed by him was as a private coach while he was employed by Cricket Victoria. Although Samaraweera dismissed all the claims but refrained from partaking in the investigation. Hence, as a result, a decision was made by Cricket Australia to ban the Sri Lankan coach for another 10 years for violating the game's code of conduct.

The 10-year ban will be cumulatively added to his already-persisting 20-year ban which will effectively exclude Samaraweera from the domestic coaching circuit till 2044 when he will be 72. Australian Associated Press (AAP) acknowledges that neither complainant has chosen to take the matter further and pursue criminal charges at this time.

However, Samaraweera's news on player misconduct drew a strong response from Cricket Victoria chief executive Nick Cummins who deemed his actions "utterly reprehensible" and "a betrayal of everything we stand for". His comments came once Cricket Australia concluded the findings of its initial investigation in September. Cummins stressed that the safety and the psychological well-being of every member at Cricket Victoria is of primary importance. to him.

He further admitted that his administration is committed to helping the affected player in every possible manner and will go to all lengths to help the victim materialize her dreams both on and off the field. 

"From an organization perspective, the safety and well-being of everyone at Cricket Victoria is paramount. We will not tolerate any behavior which compromises that position, or our people, and will always support our culture of speaking up. The victim in this case has demonstrated incredible strength of character and courage in speaking up. She will continue to receive our ongoing support to allow her to achieve her goals on and off the field."

A look into Samaraweera's professional cricketing career

Samaraweera was born in the capital city of Colombo and represented Sri Lanka in seven Tests between 1993 and 1995 before transitioning into coaching. The seven-time Test representative, dedicated nearly 16 years to Cricket Victoria's women's program, serving as a longstanding assistant coach for the Melbourne Stars in the WBBL, prior to her resignation in May. The 42-year-old served as the assistant coach for the Starts from the inaugural WBBL season in 2015 and subsequently went on to serve as Victoria's interim head coach for most of last summer.

Samaraweera was poised to take up a full-time coaching role for Cricket Victoria but resigned in May as the current policies in place barred him from hiring his brother Thilan to the coaching staff.

See also: Injury blow for Sri Lanka as Dushan Hemantha replace Wanindu Hasaranga for NZ ODIs

Prabath Jayasuriya’s performance in the two-Test series against New Zealand was nothing short of remarkable. Across four innings, he bowled a total of 122.4 overs, claiming 18 wickets at an impressive average of 21.39. His economy rate of 3.14 suggests that he maintained tight control throughout, making it difficult for the New Zealand batters to score freely. His best bowling figures of 6/42 underscore his match-winning abilities, while he recorded two five-wicket hauls, further highlighting his dominance over the Kiwi lineup. Jayasuriya’s sharp turn and accuracy, combined with subtle variations, kept the New Zealand batters on edge, forcing them into frequent errors.

Throughout the series, Jayasuriya's ability to build pressure was evident, as he bowled a significant 517 dot balls. He effectively neutralized the scoring threats, conceding just 29 boundaries and 10 sixes, often trapping the batters with clever field placements and spinning deliveries. His strike rate of 40.89 indicates that he consistently broke through the batting order at regular intervals, ensuring that New Zealand could not establish any long-lasting partnerships. Jayasuriya’s performance was the cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, as he exposed the weaknesses of the New Zealand batters in facing quality spin bowling, making him the standout performer of the series.

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Prabath Jayasuriya's Mastery Over New Zealand’s Batting Lineup: A Detailed Breakdown

The New Zealand batters found themselves in a battle against Prabath Jayasuriya's spin throughout the two-Test series, as his clever use of angles, flight, and turn created consistent problems for the visitors. One of his key achievements was removing major players from the Kiwi lineup, each of whom struggled to handle his deceptive spin. Ajaz Patel, who faced Jayasuriya for eight overs, managed to score only 22 runs before falling victim to his sharp bowling. Patel’s strike rate was restricted to 48.0, and his dismissal reflected Jayasuriya's ability to get through the lower order quickly. Similarly, Devon Conway, a top-order threat for New Zealand, managed to survive for only 6.4 overs against the spinner before being dismissed. With an economy of 4.50, Conway's attacking instincts were visible, but Jayasuriya trapped him, allowing just 30 runs before the breakthrough.

All-rounder Daryl Mitchell, who is known for his resilience, fared better than some of his teammates but still struggled to counter Jayasuriya's variations. Over 11.3 overs, Mitchell scored 38 runs, and despite a reasonable economy rate of 3.30, Jayasuriya’s mastery over him was evident in the two crucial wickets he claimed, forcing the Kiwi all-rounder into errors with pressure-building tactics. Glenn Phillips also encountered similar issues, scoring 47 runs over 11.5 overs, but his aggressive attempts were curtailed by Jayasuriya’s smart field placements and turn. Phillips fell twice to Jayasuriya, with an economy rate of 3.97, showing how the spinner kept him in check while getting through his defenses.

New Zealand’s star batsman Kane Williamson, who is often the backbone of their lineup, faced the most overs against Jayasuriya (22.5) but couldn’t escape his spin web. Williamson scored 66 runs at a cautious rate, maintaining an economy of 2.89. Jayasuriya’s ability to hold Williamson at bay with accurate lines and lengths was vital in destabilizing the Kiwi innings, as he eventually claimed the prized wicket twice. Even the solid Tom Latham, in just two innings, managed 39 runs at an economy of 3.84, but Jayasuriya’s persistence wore him down, dismissing him once at a key moment.

Jayasuriya’s impact extended beyond the top-order batters, as he also made inroads against the lower middle order and tail-enders. Mitchell Santner, a dangerous player down the order, faced 11 overs, scoring only 34 runs before being removed by Jayasuriya, who bowled with an impressive economy of 3.09. Rachin Ravindra, who had been in good form coming into the series, could only manage 46 runs in 15.5 overs before Jayasuriya snared his wicket with his ability to maintain tight lines and frustrate the batter. His economy of 2.91 showed how hard Ravindra had to work for his runs, and Jayasuriya’s relentless pressure was the key to his dismissal.

The Sri Lankan spinner was particularly effective against the tail-enders. Tim Southee, New Zealand’s captain and lower-order hitter, was rendered ineffective by Jayasuriya’s guile. Southee was dismissed three times in just 4.1 overs, managing only 15 runs with an astonishingly low average of 5.0 and a strike rate of 8.3. Jayasuriya’s ability to remove Southee quickly, along with his dismissal of players like Will O’Rourke and Tom Blundell (who did manage 46 runs but fell three times), ensured that New Zealand’s lower order offered little resistance. Jayasuriya’s control and effectiveness were underscored by his high dot ball percentage, with players like O’Rourke facing 92.9% dot balls and being removed cheaply.

See Also: Can India overcome early new ball struggles in the second test?

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has named Charith Asalanka as their new T20I captain. This decision comes ahead of the three match T20I series against India, the T20 World Cup 2024 champions starting on July 27 in Pallekele.

Asalanka steps into the role after Wanindu Hasaranga resigned following Sri Lanka’s poor performance at the T20 World Cup 2024. The SLC board has not yet officially announced Asalanka’s new role.

Sri Lankan Sports Minister Harin Fernando has approved a 16 member squad for the series against India. The team mixes young talent with experienced players like Dinesh Chandimal and Chamindu Wickremesinghe.

Key players in the T20I squad

Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Janith Perera, known for their explosive batting, are included in the squad. Kamindu Mendis and Dasun Shanaka will strengthen the middle order, while Wanindu Hasaranga will provide spin options against India.

Mahesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana will boost Sri Lanka’s bowling with a mix of spin and pace. Experienced players like Chandimal and Avishka Fernando will be key in tough situations.

The pace attack will be led by Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara, with Binura Fernando and the young all rounder Wickremasinghe offering extra bowling options. Young all rounder Dunith Wellalage has also made the squad.

“The Sri Lanka Cricket Selection Committee has chosen the 16-member squad for the T20I series against India, approved by Minister of Sports Harin Fernando. The games will take place on July 27, 28, and 30 at PICS, Pallekele.” SLC stated

Schedule for T20I and ODI series

The T20I series will be held at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on July 27, 28, and 30. The ODI series will follow on August 2, 4, and 7 at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

Sri Lanka’s T20 squad for India series

Charith Asalanka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Matheesha Pathirana, Kusal Janith Perera, Avishka Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando.

The T20 World Cup 2024 is all set to kick-start on June 2nd, promising to be an electrifying tournament with 20 teams vying for the ultimate glory. This edition marks a historic milestone, featuring the largest number of participating teams and being hosted across two diverse locations: the USA and the West Indies.

Among these teams, Sri Lanka stands out as a potential dark horse, ready to leverage their well-rounded bowling attack and balanced side under the leadership of Wanindu Hasaranga.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: 3 key players to watch out for from South Africa

Sri Lanka’s Journey in T20 World Cups

Sri Lanka’s history in T20 World Cups has been a mix of highs and lows. They clinched the title in 2014, showcasing their potential to perform on the big stage. Despite some inconsistent performances in subsequent tournaments, Sri Lanka has always been known for its fighting spirit and ability to surprise stronger teams. Sri Lanka will kick off their campaign against South Africa on June 3rd in New York.

3 Sri Lanka’s players to watch out for in T20 World Cup 2024

Sri Lanka’s success will heavily rely on the performances of a few key players who have proven themselves time and again in international cricket.

1. Pathum Nissanka

Pathum Nissanka, a stable opening batter, is one of Sri Lanka’s mainstays at the top of the order. His ability to adapt to different conditions and provide solid starts is crucial for the team’s success.

Nissanka is closing in on 2500 T20 runs, with over 50 sixes and 250 fours. His consistency at the top of the order is vital for Sri Lanka’s success.

Nissanka’s stability allows other aggressive players like Kusal Mendis to play freely. His ability to bat through the innings provides a solid platform for Sri Lanka.

2. Wanindu Hasaranga

Wanindu Hasaranga, the captain and spin-bowling all-rounder, is the backbone of the Sri Lankan team. His prowess with the ball and crucial runs with the bat make him indispensable.

Hasaranga has taken 243 wickets in 175 matches with an impressive average of 16.77. His economy rate of 6.76 underlines his control and effectiveness.

Hasaranga’s leadership will be pivotal in guiding Sri Lanka. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations will be crucial for Sri Lanka’s aspirations.

3. Matheesha Pathirana

Matheesha Pathirana is Sri Lanka’s go-to bowler in the death overs. His ability to bowl at high speeds and pick up wickets makes him a key player.

Pathirana has 71 wickets in T20s at an average of 19.28. His knack for picking wickets in the last four overs makes him a crucial asset for the team.

Sri Lanka’s strength lies in their balanced bowling attack and experienced batting lineup. With players like Pathum Nissanka anchoring the innings and Wanindu Hasaranga providing crucial breakthroughs, the team is well-equipped to handle the pressures of the tournament.

As cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the start of the fifth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) on July 1, the cricketing world buzzes with anticipation. With over 500 overseas players throwing their names into the hat for the upcoming auction, the stage is set for an exhilarating tournament showcasing talent from around the globe.

Key Players in the Auction

Among the notable names vying for spots in various LPL franchises are seasoned international cricketers such as New Zealand Test captain Tim Southee, all-rounder James Neesham, and the experienced Mushfiqur Rahim. The presence of stalwarts like Usman Khawaja, Tabraiz Shamsi, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz add to the tournament’s allure. Their participation elevates the quality of cricket and promises thrilling encounters on the field.

See Also: Rishabh Pant set to be the new VC in T20 WC for India: Reports

Auction Date Uncertainty

However, amidst the excitement, uncertainty looms over the auction proceedings. While the influx of overseas player registrations has been confirmed, the governing council is yet to announce the auction date. With the T20 World Cup scheduled to conclude on June 29, the window for conducting the auction narrows, leaving organizers and franchises in a state of suspense. The need for prompt communication from the governing body regarding the auction date becomes increasingly apparent to ensure seamless planning and execution.

Tournament Structure

The upcoming edition of the LPL will adhere to the established format, featuring five teams competing in a total of 24 matches. Each team will face off against the others twice during the league stage, setting the stage for intense rivalries and captivating cricketing action. Following the league stage, the tournament will progress to the qualifier and eliminator matches, culminating in the grand final on July 21, promising fans a spectacle to remember.

Competition with Other Leagues

While anticipation for the LPL runs high, it faces stiff competition from other cricketing leagues like The Hundred and Major League Cricket (MLC). With both leagues commencing shortly after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup, the race to secure marquee players intensifies. The governing council of the LPL must act swiftly to finalize the auction details and secure the participation of foreign cricketers, lest they risk losing out to rival leagues in the battle for talent.

The Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka cricket match sparks yet another controversy, offering fans an eventful spectacle. The ongoing second T20I of the three-match series unfolds at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet.

In a pivotal moment during the second innings, Sri Lanka finds themselves in turmoil. On the first delivery of the fourth over, Binura Fernando delivers a skiddy back-of-a-length ball, angling in from around off. Soumya Sarkar attempts a pull shot but fails to make contact.

The DRS Drama: Sarkar’s Controversial Decision Keeps Sri Lanka on Edge

A distinct sound accompanies the ball’s passage to Kusal Mendis, prompting the Sri Lankan team’s appeal and the umpire’s decision to give it out. However, Sarkar vehemently denies making contact and opts for the DRS after consulting his partner, Litton Das.

Upon review by the third umpire, replays indicate a spike. Nevertheless, the official determines there’s a discernible gap between bat and ball. The umpire concludes that the spike occurs post-ball passage, contradicting the Sri Lankan players’ discontent.

Sri Lanka’s Head Coach, Chris Silverwood, expressed intense frustration with the third umpire’s decision. Players like Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Charith Asalanka, and others surrounded the on-field umpires, engaging in lively discussions with visible animation.

Adding insult to injury for Sri Lanka, Soumya Sarkar swiftly followed up with a boundary on the subsequent delivery. The left-handed batsman played a crucial role at the top of the order, spearheading Bangladesh’s valiant pursuit of 166 runs.

Partnering with Litton Das, Sarkar amassed 68 runs for the opening stand, applying relentless pressure on Sri Lanka from the outset. Sarkar contributed 26 runs off 22 balls, while Das ended his innings with a commendable 36 runs off 24 deliveries.

Bangladesh Clinches Victory in Second T20I Against Sri Lanka, Leveling the Series

Following a strong start by Soumya Sarkar and Litton Das, Matheesha Pathirana’s performance for Sri Lanka injected new life into the game. Removing both openers within two overs, he reignited hopes for Sri Lankan fans.

However, the new skipper, Najmul Hossain Shanto (53), and Towhid Hridoy (32), showcased exceptional prowess, steering Bangladesh towards victory. The pair formed an unbroken 87-run partnership, securing an eight-wicket win with two overs to spare. This result leveled the series 1-1, with one match remaining.

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In the first innings, Sri Lanka amassed a total of 165 runs on the scoreboard. Kusal Mendis (36) and Kamindu Mendis (37) provided a solid foundation at the top. Following their dismissals, Charith Asalanka (28), Angelo Mathews (32), and Dasun Shanaka (20) made valuable contributions, propelling the team beyond the 160-run mark.

In the ongoing first T20I between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh’s Shoriful Islam emerged as the center of attention. The competition between the two teams has intensified, with Shoriful Islam seizing every opportunity to playfully needle the opposition. Following his dismissal of Avishka Fernando, Shoriful Islam couldn’t resist taunting Sri Lanka with a cheeky imitation of the timed-out celebration.

Sparking Controversy: The Timed-Out Dismissal Incident

The moment occurred during the second ball of the innings when Shoriful Islam delivered a fuller-length ball outside off stump. Avishka Fernando, attempting a forceful drive, only managed to edge the ball, resulting in an easy catch for wicketkeeper Litton Das. While the dismissal itself was routine, Shoriful Islam’s post-wicket antics drew widespread attention. His mocking gesture, reminiscent of Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews’ dismissal during the ICC World Cup 2023 game against Bangladesh, added an extra layer of amusement to the match.

In that game, Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan had famously appealed for a timed-out dismissal against Mathews, who faced delays due to a broken helmet strap, sparking controversy and banter alike.

However, the Bangladesh skipper’s request for a timed-out dismissal didn’t sit well with everyone, as the decision was made to give the batter out. Angelo Mathews was visibly angered by this turn of events, sparking a high-intensity battle between the two teams. Since then, both sides have spared no effort in exchanging verbal volleys and competitive jibes, adding fuel to their ongoing rivalry.

Shoriful Islam leaks 47 runs in his 4 overs as Sri Lanka amass a colossal total of 206 runs

In the ongoing match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, the island nation made an explosive start with the bat, posting an imposing total on the scoreboard. Led by Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka opted to bat first, capitalizing on favorable batting conditions.

Following Avishka Fernando’s departure, Kusal Mendis anchored the innings, crafting a splendid half-century with 59 runs off 36 deliveries. Kamindu Mendis provided valuable support with a contribution of 19 runs, consolidating the middle order.

However, the real onslaught came from Sadeera Samarawickrama (61) and skipper Charith Asalanka (44). The pair launched a ferocious assault on the Bangladesh bowlers, ruthlessly dismantling the opposition’s attack. Their unbeaten partnership of 73 runs off just 33 balls propelled Sri Lanka to a commanding total of 206 runs on the scoreboard.

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The Bangladesh bowlers endured a tough outing, with Shoriful Islam claiming one wicket but conceding 47 runs. Taskin Ahmad managed to secure a wicket as well, while Rishad Hossain also contributed with a dismissal. However, Bangladesh faced a challenging start in their chase, losing early wickets and feeling the pressure.

Angelo Mathews emerged as the standout performer among the bowlers in the game, having picked up two crucial wickets. Matheesha Pathirana and Binura Fernando also made valuable contributions, each chipping in with one wicket apiece.

Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman will miss the upcoming three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, set to commence on February 9, 2024. Mujeeb sustained a right hand injury during a training session in Kandy, leading to his absence from the 50-over matches against Sri Lanka. The Afghanistan Cricket Board announced this development via a tweet on ‘X’, stating, “Mujeeb Ur Rahman sprained his right phalanx (hand) during the training session yesterday, which ruled him out of the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. Wish you a swift & speedy recovery Muj!”

Mujeeb Ur Rahman has been absent from ODI matches since November 2023 but featured in the T20I series against India in January 2024. He garnered attention for his dispute with the Afghanistan Cricket Board, where he advocated for exclusion from the central contract list for 2024, expressing a preference for participating in T20 leagues over national team commitments.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman, along with Naveen-ul-Haq and Fazalhaq Farooqi, faced a two-year ban from participating in foreign leagues imposed by the ACB. However, they later expressed their desire to represent the national team, leading to the lifting of their bans by the cricket board.

Setback for Afghanistan: Mujeeb Ur Rahman Ruled out for ODI series against Sri Lanka

Mujeeb Ur Rahman is renowned for his exceptional spin bowling skills, boasting a wide array of variations that stifle batsmen and enable him to pick up wickets consistently. With the ability to make an impact with the new ball or during any phase of the innings, Mujeeb’s deceptive googly adds further potency to his bowling arsenal.

SEE ALSO:Virat Kohli’s Absence Confirmed for 3rd and 4th Tests Against England, Participation in 5th Test in Dharamsala Remains Uncertain

In the absence of Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Afghanistan’s spin attack faces a challenge with relatively inexperienced options such as Noor Ahmad and Mohammad Nabi. Consequently, the team may rely more on its pacers to make breakthroughs rather than the spinners.

Afghanistan, buoyed by their victory over Sri Lanka in the 2023 ODI World Cup, aims to maintain their winning momentum in the upcoming series. Led by Kusal Mendis, Sri Lanka boasts a youthful squad featuring emerging talents like Janith Liyanage and Shevon Daniel, bolstered by match-winning spinners such as Wanindu Hasaranga, Akila Dhananjaya, and Maheesh Theekshana.

The inclusion of promising spinner Dunith Wellalage, who impressed during the 2023 ODI World Cup, further strengthens Sri Lanka’s spin department. The entirety of the SL vs AFG ODI series will unfold at the Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy. The opening match is scheduled for February 9, with the series wrapping up on February 14.

In the latest update from the Asian Cricket Council meeting in Bali, Indonesia, tensions have arisen between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Sri Lankan Cricket Board regarding unresolved financial matters from the co-hosting of the Asia Cup 2023. Originally planned to take place in Pakistan, the tournament had to be relocated to Sri Lanka due to the BCCI’s security concerns regarding the Indian team’s visit.

During the event, the PCB, implementing a hybrid model for the 50-over tournament, entered into agreements with the Sri Lankan Cricket Board concerning expenses such as hotels, flights, accommodation, and venue charges. The PCB committed to paying $281,700 for four chartered planes and approximately $2,069,885 for venue charges in Sri Lanka.

Najam Sethi, the then-chief overseeing the hosting proceedings, made a partial payment of 75% and agreed to settle the remaining amount after the tournament. However, the outstanding hotel bills remain unpaid, prompting Sri Lankan Cricket Board President Shami Silva to address the issue during the recent ACC meeting, as reported by Cricket Pakistan.

ACC President Jay Shah, present at the meeting, urged Silva to arrange direct discussions with the PCB to address the financial concerns. His enigmatic request raises speculation about his willingness to assist the Pakistani board.

In response, the PCB asserted that the ACC shares responsibility for the outstanding payments, arguing that the ACC compelled them to organize the Asia Cup 2023 using a hybrid model. The PCB further disclosed that the ACC had allocated only $2.5 million as hosting fees, significantly less than the actual cost, which exceeded the 4 million mark to organize the tournament.

PCB Contemplates Strategic Steps in Response to Financial Challenges and Office Tensions

Cricket in Pakistan faces challenges amid the search for a new PCB chief after Zaka Ashraf’s resignation. Team director role discussions, financial strains, and internal board disputes coincide with SLC raising concerns, impacting both the office and the team’s performance. Post-CWC 2023, with Babar Azam stepping down, Shan Masood and Shaheen Afridi took on Test and T20I captaincy, starting their tenure with losses to Australia and New Zealand, respectively.

As the Pakistan Super League looms on the horizon, the focus may temporarily shift to the 9th edition. Nevertheless, the ongoing financial constraints between PCB and SLC are anticipated to intensify in the days ahead.

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The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has revealed the 16-member squad for the upcoming singular Test match against Sri Lanka, scheduled to take place at the Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground in Colombo starting from February 2.

Hashmatullah Shahidi will lead the team, with Ikram Alikhil appointed as the vice-captain. Notably, several fresh faces have been included in the lineup, while Rashid Khan will be absent due to ongoing rehabilitation from a back injury.

Naveen Zadran and Mohammad Ishaq have received their inaugural call-up to the squad. Naveen, a right-arm pacer, and Ishaq, a wicket-keeper batsman, showcased commendable performances in the Ahmad Shah Abdali First Class and the recently concluded Ghazi Amanullah Khan Regional List A Tournament. Their notable displays during the Afghan Abdalyan’s Tour of Oman in October last year further solidified their places.

This Test match marks Afghanistan’s eighth appearance in the format, and it also serves as their inaugural encounter against Sri Lanka. The team is slated to participate in six more Test matches later in the year, including a two-match home series against Bangladesh and a one-off Test against New Zealand. Having won five out of their seven Test matches thus far, Afghanistan played their maiden Test against India in 2018.

Sulimankhil stated, “The team went through a rigorous two-week preparation camp in Nangarhar, followed by a 10-day conditioning camp in Abu Dhabi. The camps involved all support staff collaborating with the players to ensure thorough preparation for the upcoming series. We have diligently observed the proceedings and selected a squad that includes several promising talents who have excelled in recent domestic events.”

Afghanistan has rapidly emerged as one of the most dynamic cricketing sides globally. The team had a commendable campaign in the ODI World Cup 2023, securing the sixth position with four victories in nine matches. Notably, Afghanistan defeated formidable teams like Pakistan and England and came close to triumphing over Australia.

Following the solitary Test match in Colombo, Afghanistan is scheduled to engage in a three-match ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka. The ODI series is set to commence on February 7, with the T20I series following suit on February 17.

The squad representing Afghanistan for the one-off Test against Sri Lanka

Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain), Rahmat Shah (Vice-Captain), Ikram Alikhil (Wicketkeeper), Mohammad Ishaq (Wicketkeeper), Ibrahim Zadran, Noor Ali Zadran, Abdul Malik, Baheer Shah, Nasir Jamal, Qais Ahmad, Zahir Khan, Zia Ur Rehman Akbar, Yamin Ahmadzai, Nijat Masoud, Mohammad Saleem Safi, and Naveed Zadran comprise Afghanistan’s squad for the upcoming one-off Test against Sri Lanka.

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