Angelo Mathews makes his comeback after three years as Sri Lanka name T20I squad for home series

Veteran Sri Lanka stalwart and all-rounder Angelo Mathews is all set to make a comeback in the T20I format after a three-year-long hiatus. Notably, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) have announced a 16-member strong squad for the upcoming T20I series with Zimbabwe. Apart from Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Perera who missed out on becoming part of the squad for the ongoing ODI series with the Chevrons at home have made it to the squad.

Besides, the round-arm seamer Nuwan Thushara, all-rounder Kamindu Mendis and spinner Akila Dananjaya are also named in the T20I side for the home series. Interestingly enough, veteran leg spinner Wanindu Hasaranga also marks his comeback after going through a string of injuries and will lead Sri Lanka. This will be his first assignment for his nation as the leader of the pack. Additionally, former captain Dasun Shanaka may also be available for selection as there is still a vacant spot on the side.

It is to draw attention towards some notable names who are not part of the T20I squad are Nuwanidu Fernando along with the new batting sensation, Janith Liyanage, who recently starred with the bat for Sri Lanka in the recently concluded ODI game against Zimbabwe. Besides, opener Avishka Fernando also fails to make the cut as well. Furthermore, star spin all-rounder Dunith Wellalage who produced some good performances during last year's Asia Cup also has been left out from the side along with leggie Jeffrey Vandersay and pacer Pramod Madushan.

While batter Pathum Nissanka, albeit, has been named in the squad is subjected to fitness conditions which will determine his availability for the home series. The youngster was diagnosed with Dengue last week and has been undergoing treatment in a hospital.

Sri Lanka will play T20I series versus Zimbabwe at home in a bid to prepare for T20 World Cup 2024

Now speaking of Sri Lanka's fortunes, the past few months have been really hard with a lot of political turmoil and corruption jolting the apex body in the form of SLC. As a result, the island nation has been in dire straits when it comes to cricket. This led to change in administration in recent times and hence the team shuffling has been going on ahead of the much-awaited T20 World Cup slated to take place in the United States and West Indies, later this year.

It is worth noting that Sri Lanka playing Zimbabwe in the T20I series will be the dress rehearsal for the upcoming marquee event. The Lankan Lions will lock horns with the Chevrons at Kettarma for the three-game T20I series. Notably, these three games will be played on January 14, 16 and 18, respectively. Hence, Wanindu Hasaranga and Co. will hope to find the right team combination before taking off for the World Cup. Talking of the shortest format, the island nation featured in only seven matches last year.

Sri Lanka squad for T20I series:

Wanindu Hasaranga (C), Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kusal Perera, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Akila Dananjaya.