Sri Lanka have made notable changes to their T20I squad ahead of their upcoming three-match series against the West Indies, recalling hard-hitting batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa and legspinner Jeffrey Vandersay. Both players have been included for the first time since early 2023 and 2022, respectively, as Sri Lanka looks to bounce back from a recent 0-3 home defeat to India.
Bhanuka Rajapaksa’s Return
The 32-year-old Rajapaksa, known for his explosive batting, returns to the T20I fold after a period of absence due to fitness concerns. His recent performances in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) have been particularly impressive, where he played a pivotal role in St Lucia Kings’ title-winning campaign. Rajapaksa starred in several key moments for the Kings, including a match-winning 68* off 34 balls in a successful chase of 202 against St Kitts & Nevis Patriots.
Before his CPL stint, Rajapaksa had a strong showing in the Lanka Premier League (LPL), where he played for Galle Marvels in July 2024. His aggressive style of play saw him score 236 runs at a staggering strike rate of 163.88, finishing as the third-highest scorer for his team behind Tim Seifert and Alex Hales. With this form behind him, Rajapaksa’s return to the national squad will add firepower to Sri Lanka’s middle order.
Jeffrey Vandersay Back in the Fold
The recall of legspinner Jeffrey Vandersay, meanwhile, is a significant boost for Sri Lanka’s bowling department. Vandersay, who last played a T20I for Sri Lanka in February 2022, had an impressive outing in the ODI series against India in August 2024. The 34-year-old claimed outstanding figures of 6 for 33 in one game and 2 for 34 in another, proving his form and ability to take wickets in key moments. His inclusion in the T20I squad adds depth and variety to Sri Lanka’s spin attack.
Squad Changes and Absentees
Along with the return of Rajapaksa and Vandersay, the squad sees some notable omissions, most notably former captain Dasun Shanaka. Shanaka, who led Sri Lanka in the recent T20I series, has been left out following Sri Lanka’s recent defeat to India. Fast bowlers Dilshan Madushanka and Dushmantha Chameera are also absent from the squad. The exclusion of these key figures signals a shift in Sri Lanka’s approach as they look to strengthen their team ahead of the West Indies series.
Click Here:- West Indies Announce T20I and ODI Squads for Sri Lanka Tour
Sri Lanka’s T20I Squad for West Indies Series 2024
– Charith Asalanka (c)
– Pathum Nissanka
– Kusal Mendis
– Kusal Perera
– Kamindu Mendis
– Dinesh Chandimal
– Avishka Fernando
– Bhanuka Rajapaksa
– Wanindu Hasaranga
– Maheesh Theekshana
– Dunith Wellalage
– Jeffrey Vandersay
– Chamindu Wickramasinghe
– Nuwan Thushara
– Matheesha Pathirana
– Binura Fernando
– Asitha Fernando
The three-match T20I series against the West Indies will be held at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, with the first match scheduled for October 13, followed by games on October 15 and 17. This series provides Sri Lanka with a crucial opportunity to regroup and test their depth in the shortest format of the game.
