Sri Lanka’s Head Coach, Sanath Jayasuriya, has announced several significant adjustments to the national team lineup ahead of the upcoming Test match in Galle. These changes, particularly in the batting order, are designed to enhance team balance and capitalize on key player strengths.
Kamindu Mendis, who has shown consistent form, will be promoted to the number five spot in the batting order. Jayasuriya explained that Mendis will be gradually integrated into the middle order, instead of being thrust into the critical number three position. “You can’t bring someone like Kamindu Mendis to number three suddenly,” said Jayasuriya, emphasizing the importance of allowing him time to settle into his new role.
Dinesh Chandimal, a veteran of the team known for his experience and adaptability, will take on the number three position. Jayasuriya praised Chandimal’s team-first attitude, stating, “He needs to be thanked for thinking about the team and agreeing to play at number three.”
Meanwhile, Kusal Mendis will move down to bat at number seven and will assume wicket-keeping duties. Jayasuriya highlighted that this is a long-term strategy. “We need our keeper to bat at 7; it’s not easy to bat higher up the order if you’re keeping for long hours,” the coach explained.
On the bowling front, Ramesh Mendis will join the team as the second spinner, a role well-suited to the spin-friendly conditions in Galle. Fast bowler Milan Ratnayake, who impressed during the tour of England, will be omitted from the squad for this match. Jayasuriya explained that the team could not afford to play three fast bowlers in Galle, but noted that Ratnayake understood the need for team balance. Asitha Fernando and Lahiru Kumara will serve as the two fast bowlers for the match.
New Zealand Tour of Sri Lanka 2024 – Sri Lanka Playing XI for the 1st Test Match:
- Dimuth Karunaratne
- Pathum Nissanka
- Dinesh Chandimal
- Angelo Mathews
- Kamindu Mendis
- Dhananjaya De Silva (Captain)
- Kusal Mendis (Wicketkeeper)
- Ramesh Mendis
- Prabath Jayasuriya
- Lahiru Kumara
- Asitha Fernando
Sri Lanka’s revised lineup reflects a thoughtful balance of experience, adaptability, and tactical changes as they gear up for the first Test against New Zealand in Galle.