The three-match T20I series between India and Sri Lanka began on Saturday, July 27, in Pallekele. Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bowl first against the world champions.

New captains lead the way

This match starts a new chapter for both teams as they have new T20I captains. Suryakumar Yadav has taken over from Rohit Sharma as India’s T20I captain after Rohit retired from the format. Charith Asalanka is the new captain for Sri Lanka, following Wanindu Hasaranga’s resignation after their poor T20 World Cup performance, where they didn’t advance past the group stage.

“We are going to bowl first. The pitch looks good, and we want to see how it plays. We’re going with a 6-5 batters-bowlers combination. I want to give each player specific roles, so we’re using five bowlers. You can expect more wins and consistency,” said Asalanka after winning the toss.

Shivam Dube and Sanju Samson left out

India’s new team management surprised everyone with their team selection. Allrounder Shivam Dube and star batter Sanju Samson were left out of the Playing XI for the series opener. Dube played in all eight of India’s games at the T20 World Cup last month, and Samson was also part of the squad.

Despite some good performances, Dube seems to need to prove himself to the new management. Instead of Dube, the team has given young Riyan Parag another chance to shine in international cricket.

Twitter reactions:

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.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced the schedule for their upcoming series against India at home. The series will feature three T20Is and three ODIs.

India’s team, led by new coach Gautam Gambhir after replacing Rahul Dravid will be taking part in their first matches since winning the T20 World Cup. Currently, they are playing a five match T20I series against Zimbabwe.

India is scheduled to arrive in Sri Lanka on July 22, with the T20I series starting on July 26 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. The second and third T20Is will follow on July 27 and 29 respectively all at Pallekele.

After the T20Is, the action will move to Colombo for the ODI series. The first ODI is slated for August 1, followed by the second on August 4, and the third on August 7, all to be held at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium.

IND vs SL schedule and venues

Sri Lanka’s T20I captain Wanindu Hasaranga steps down after a disappointing T20 World Cup 2024

This tour marks India’s first visit to Sri Lanka since 2021, when they played 4 T20Is and 3 ODIs. India won the T20I series 3-1 but lost the ODI series 2-0.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced that Wanindu Hasaranga, who became the T20I captain earlier this year, has stepped down less than seven months into his role.

This decision follows a poor performance in the T20 World Cup 2024, where Sri Lanka failed to advance to the Super 8s, winning only one match. Under Hasaranga’s leadership, they were eliminated in the group stages after a heavy loss to South Africa and a narrow defeat to Bangladesh.

Hasaranga steps down as T20I captain

“Sri Lanka Cricket wants to inform the public that Wanindu Hasaranga has resigned as the National Men’s T20I captain,” SLC said in a statement.

“Hasaranga believes stepping down is in the best interest of Sri Lanka cricket. He will continue to play for the team,” the statement added.

In his own statement, Hasaranga said, “I will always give my best for Sri Lanka as a player and will continue to support my team and its leadership.”

Hasaranga, took over from Dasun Shanaka at the beginning of the year and led the team to series wins against Zimbabwe and Afghanistan. However, after a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign, he decided to resign after just 10 games.

Sri Lanka has not yet named Hasaranga’s replacement.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, hosted jointly by the United States and the West Indies, will kick off on June 2, 2024. This year’s tournament is highly anticipated, and Sri Lanka is one of the prominent teams expected to make a significant impact. With the Sri Lankan cricket board announcing a strong 15-member squad led by Wanindu Hasaranga, fans are eager to see how the team performs.

Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup Journey

Sri Lanka has a rich history in international cricket and a respectable winning percentage of 55% in T20 Internationals. Despite recent challenges, the team is working hard to fine-tune their line-up, promising thrilling games. Sri Lanka is grouped in Group D alongside Bangladesh, Nepal, Netherlands, and South Africa. Their campaign begins against South Africa on June 3 in New York, followed by games against Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Netherlands.

See Also: “I raised my concern, no one was agreeing to it”, Shreyas Iyer on his back issues

Sri Lanka’s preparation for the T20 World Cup has been thorough, including practice matches and strategic sessions. The team has been addressing past inconsistencies and building a cohesive unit capable of competing at the highest level.

SWOT analysis of the Sri Lanka squad for 2024 T20 World Cup

Strengths

The Sri Lankan squad boasts seasoned players like Kusal Mendis and Angelo Mathews, who bring invaluable experience to the team. Their knowledge and leadership on and off the field are crucial for guiding younger players through the tournament’s pressures.

Having Wanindu Hasaranga as both captain and an all-rounder significantly strengthens the team. His versatility in batting and bowling provides a crucial balance that can turn games in Sri Lanka’s favor.

Young talents such as Pathum Nissanka and Matheesha Pathirana inject fresh energy and dynamism into the squad. These players bring new strategies and perspectives, enhancing the team’s performance.

Sri Lanka’s batting line-up is robust and predictable, featuring Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, and Angelo Mathews. This consistency in the batting order helps in building strong innings. The spin attack, led by Mahesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga, is a significant asset. Hasaranga, as the captain, can also move up the order when needed, providing flexibility and depth to the team’s strategy.

Weaknesses

One of the major weaknesses of the Sri Lankan team is their inconsistency. Past performances have shown that they can struggle to maintain form, which could be detrimental in high-pressure matches.

Injuries to key players like Pathum Nissanka can impact the team’s composition and performance. Wanindu Hasaranga missed the IPL due to a heel injury but has returned to competitive cricket in recent practice matches.

Wanindu Hasaranga’s leadership will be under scrutiny, especially since he missed the IPL to stay fit for the World Cup. His ability to lead effectively under pressure will be critical for the team’s success.

Opportunities

Sri Lanka can leverage its status as an underdog. With less pressure to perform, it can play more freely and surprise stronger teams with its performance. The extended format of the World Cup allows Sri Lanka to build momentum and refine their strategies over several games. This can be advantageous in adapting to different opponents and conditions.

The batting strategy will focus on building solid partnerships at the top and accelerating in the middle and death overs. Players like Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis will be key in setting the tone.

Left-arm spinning all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, despite not having played a T20 international, has been included for his skillset. His left-arm spin, lower-order hitting, and fielding capabilities offer valuable utility.

Threats

Historically, Sri Lanka has struggled in the knockout stages. Managing the pressure of these critical games will be crucial for their progress in the tournament. It is a significant challenge to face teams like India, England, and Australia due to their formidable line-ups and consistent performances.

The competition for fast-bowling places is intense. Dushmantha Chameera is likely to start but faces tough competition from Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, and Dilshan Madushanka. This competition could impact team dynamics and selection.

Sri Lanka’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 is a blend of experience and youth, with strengths in their all-rounders and spin attack. While they face challenges such as inconsistency and injury concerns, the opportunities for success are significant.

Sri Lanka squad: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka. Travelling Reserves: Asitha Fernando, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage.

Sri Lanka’s quest for glory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 will be spearheaded by all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga, who assumes the mantle of leadership for a seasoned squad brimming with experience and talent.

Leadership Dynamics

Following his appointment as Sri Lanka’s T20I captain in December, Wanindu Hasaranga‘s leadership journey enters a new phase as he shoulders the responsibility of leading the national team on the global stage. Assisting Hasaranga in steering the team’s fortunes will be middle-order batsman Charith Asalanka, appointed as the deputy to the captaincy.

Squad Composition

The inclusion of veteran Angelo Mathews adds a wealth of experience to the squad, with the seasoned campaigner set to make his sixth T20 World Cup appearance.

See Also: USA Cricket chairman expects T20 World Cup 2024 to increase game awareness in America

The presence of former captains Dasun Shanaka, Kusal Mendis, and Dhananjaya de Silva underscores Sri Lanka’s leadership depth and provides invaluable mentorship to the younger members of the squad.

All-Rounder Options

Sri Lanka’s squad boasts a plethora of all-round talents, with Hasaranga leading the spin-bowling contingent alongside Dunith Wellalage, Dhananjaya de Silva, and Kamindu Mendis. Mathews and Shanaka provide additional firepower with their pace-bowling prowess.

Pace Attack

The unique bowling actions of Matheesha Pathirana and Nuwan Thushara inject unpredictability into Sri Lanka’s pace battery, complementing the established duo of Dushmantha Chameera and Dilshan Madushanka.

Group Dynamics

Placed alongside South Africa, Bangladesh, Netherlands, and Nepal in Group D, Sri Lanka faces a challenging path to progression in the tournament. Sri Lanka kicks off their T20 World Cup campaign on June 3 against South Africa in New York, setting the tone for their campaign on the global stage.

Sri Lanka squad: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, and Dilshan Madushanka

Traveling Reserves: Asitha Fernando, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, and Janith Liyanage.

*Teams have until 25 May to make changes to their squads, after which any alteration will require approval from ICC’s Event Technical Committee.

In a surprising turn of events just before the commencement of the IPL 2024 season, Sunrisers Hyderabad faced a setback with the injury of Wanindu Hasaranga, one of their prized acquisitions. Sunrisers Hyderabad swiftly moved to fill the gap by signing Sri Lankan leg-spinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth.

Wanindu Hasaranga’s Injury

Wanindu Hasaranga’s journey with Sunrisers Hyderabad was poised to be an exciting one, given his exceptional skills in the T20 format. However, just before the start of the IPL season, news emerged of a heel injury that sidelined him from the initial matches. Despite initial hopes of a quick recovery, the injury persisted, forcing him to miss the entire season, leaving a void in the team’s lineup.

See Also: Big player returns for Pakistan’s upcoming T20I series against New Zealand

Replacement Announcement

In light of Hasaranga’s unavailability, Sunrisers Hyderabad swiftly moved to fill the gap by signing Sri Lankan leg-spinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth. This decision was made at Viyaskanth’s base price of INR 50 lakhs, marking a strategic move by the team management to secure a suitable replacement within budget constraints.

Who is Vijayakanth Viyaskanth?

Vijayakanth Viyaskanth may be a new name to some, but his performance record speaks volumes about his capabilities. With an impressive tally of 42 wickets from 33 T20 matches at an average of 18.78, Viyaskanth has proven himself as a reliable spinner in the shortest format of the game. Despite limited batting credentials, his prowess with the ball has earned him recognition in various domestic and international leagues.

Hyderabad’s Current IPL Standing

As Sunrisers Hyderabad navigates through the IPL 2024 season, the addition of Vijayakanth Viyaskanth adds depth to their bowling lineup. Currently positioned fifth on the points table with four points from four games and a net run rate of +0.409, Hyderabad aims to leverage Viyaskanth’s talent to enhance their chances of success in the remainder of the tournament.

He finished with 13 wickets (economy 6.68) in LPL 2023, finishing behind only Carlos Brathwaite (18) and Nuwan Thushara (14) and level with Kasun Rajitha. His 22 wickets (at 6.98) are the third-most in the history of the Jaffna franchise, behind Maheesh Theekshana (33) and, when he used to represent them, Hasaranga (28).

Viyaskanth also played for the Chattogram Challengers for BPL 2023, his maiden foray into an overseas T20 league. He had a terrific outing for the MI Emirates in the 2024 ILT20, taking eight wickets at 10.87 while going at 5.43 an over, the most economical for the franchise.

Wanindu Hasaranga will not take part in the ongoing IPL 2024. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has informed BCCI that the veteran leg-spinner is injured and cannot take part in the league for Sunrisers Hyderabad this season as well. However, as per the last news, the franchise is believed to be looking for a replacement as well.

However, according to sources familiar with the situation, SLC has written to the BCCI where they mentioned that the 26-year-old has to undergo rehabilitation and rest to heal his left ankle and he will not be available for the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League. Meanwhile, he is believed to have been advised precautionary rest by an expert in Dubai whom he consulted a few days back as well.

Wanindu Hasaranga won’t take part in the IPL 2024

“I believe so,” the player’s manager, Shyam, told Cricbuzz. “Sri Lanka Cricket has written to the BCCI informing them about his unavailability. He went to Dubai for medical advice and stayed there for three days. Given the current situation, the expert’s advice is that he should rest rather than participate in the IPL this season.”

ALSO READ: Zaheer Khan shares MS Dhoni’s plans after IPL 2024

However, a few days ago, the manager told Cricbuzz that Hasaranga would play for SRH. Meanwhile, his withdrawal raises questions about foreign players registering for the auction and pulling out later for inexplicable reasons as well. Here, the SLC, which has authorised his withdrawal, had added him to the Test squad for the Test series in Bangladesh which started on the same day the IPL had kicked off – on March 22 as well.

On the other hand, had Hasaranga not been plucked out of retirement and selected for the Test side, he would have been unable to lead the Sri Lankan national team in the first four games of the T20 World Cup in June due to disciplinary action by the ICC as well.

As per Cricbuzz, in the IPL some foreign players skip the tournament if they don’t get a good price in the auction. However, Hasaranga’s previous price was INR 10.75 crores and after RCB had released him, his auction price came down to the base price of INR 1.5 crores at which SRH had bought him for this season. However, his manager has denied that the withdrawal has anything related to the auction value as well.

Wanindu Hasaranga, the dynamic Sri Lankan cricketer, is sidelined due to chronic pain in his left heel, posing a significant setback for his IPL franchise, Sunrisers Hyderabad. While fans eagerly await his Return to action, the road to recovery appears challenging for the talented all-rounder.

Understanding Hasaranga’s Injury

Hasaranga’s struggles with chronic pain in his left heel came to light during Sri Lanka’s recent limited-overs series against Bangladesh. Despite participating in the series, Hasaranga battled substantial pain, prompting concerns from Sri Lanka Cricket’s medical staff.

See Also: Anrich Nortje misses out from South Africa’s central contracts 2024

Seeking Medical Opinion Overseas

SLC’s doctors have advised Hasaranga to seek additional medical opinion overseas in response to the persistent discomfort. He is expected to travel out of Sri Lanka next week to consult specialists and determine the exact nature of his injury and the best course of action for management.

Impact on Sunrisers Hyderabad

Hasaranga’s absence from the Sunrisers Hyderabad squad raises questions about the team’s strategies and lineup dynamics. With no set date for his Return, uncertainty looms over when the talented all-rounder will rejoin the franchise.

Hasaranga had a spectacular 2022 IPL season for Royal Challengers Bangalore for whom he took 26 wickets at an economy rate of 7.54. Sunrisers had paid INR 1.5 crore (approx USD $181,000) for him at the most-recent auction.

Road to Recovery

SLC and Hasaranga have set their sights on the T20 World Cup in June, where he is expected to lead his national team. However, if his condition necessitates additional rest or rehabilitation, his Return to the IPL may face further delays.

Hasaranga’s stellar performance in the 2022 IPL season for Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he claimed 26 wickets at an impressive economy rate, underscores his value as a player. Sunrisers Hyderabad secured his services at a significant price, highlighting the high expectations associated with his inclusion in the squad.

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) approaches its 2024 season, cricket fanatics eagerly await the exciting confrontations and standout performances that distinguish the competition. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) franchise is one of the teams that is attracting notice, having added excellent talent to their squad.

Armed with a mix of seasoned veterans and rising talents, SRH hope to end their title drought that began in 2016 by winning a second championship this year. In this article, we will focus on the Orange Army’s top four players that could create an impact on the team’s upcoming run in the IPL 2024 edition.

Heinrich Klassen 

Heinrich Klaasen, the South African power hitter, is one of the players who will be focused from the Orange Army side. Klaasen’s aggressive, clean striking and ability to overpower bowlers can turn the tide in SRH’s favour during vital occasions; his ability to accelerate the scoring rate in the middle overs will be critical for SRH’s innings-building.

Klaasen had an outstanding season with SRH, scoring a century for the team. Heinrich Klaasen, currently in excellent form, is anticipated to play an essential part for SRH as a wicketkeeper-batsman. Klaasen has made 512 runs in 19 IPL appearances, including a century and two fifties.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the Indian medium-fast bowler, has been a regular part of the Hyderabad-based franchise since 2014 and is regarded as one of the finest pace bowlers in IPL history, with two purple caps. Kumar, who has 170 wickets in 160 games at an astonishing economy rate of 7.39, will join captain Pat Cummins in the powerplay.

Also, not to forget his recent performance in the 2023 UP T20 league when he represented the Noida Super Kings and performed an outstanding job with the ball, taking 14 wickets in just nine matches with an economy rate of 5.81, making him the tournament’s fourth top wicket-taker. 

See also: IPL 2024: Best Playing XI for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) Post Mini Auction

Pat Cummins

Australian speedster Pat Cummins leads the SRH team from the front. Cummins brings new energy to SRH’s roster, drawing on his leadership skills and experience guiding Australia to many wins. The Australian skipper is the tournament’s second most expensive player, costing a whopping INR 20.5 crore following a fierce auction war with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Aside from his bowling abilities, Cummins’ ability to score critical runs strengthens SRH’s batting lineup. He has played 42 games in the premier league and taken 45 wickets. Furthermore, he has scored 379 runs with a phenomenal strike rate of 152.21. 

Wanindu Hasaranga

Wanindu Hasaranga, the Sri Lankan leg-spinning maestro, will join the SRH camp after spending three seasons with RCB. The 26-year-old all-rounder is now ranked second in the ICC shortest format rankings and is regarded as one of the best leg-break bowlers.

His ability to take up wickets in the middle overs and control the run flow might be critical to SRH’s prospects this season. IPL fans were surprised to learn of his purchase for a measly INR 1.5 crore, but based on the spinmeister’s performance, it may be a fantastic deal for SRH. In 26 IPL matches, he has 35 wickets at an 8.13 economy rate.