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ENG vs SL: Kusal Mendis ruled out of T20I series against England, Charith Asalanka to take over captaincy
The Sri Lankan cricket team has suffered a major setback ahead of the upcoming tour of England. Regular captain Kusal Mendis has been completely ruled out of the three-match T20I series after failing to recover in time from a hamstring injury. In his absence, all-rounder Charith Asalanka will take charge of the Sri Lankan team.
Hamstring injury the cause; Asalanka returns as captain
Kusal Mendis sustained a hamstring injury while playing for the Colombo Caps during the second match of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) in July. This injury had previously caused him to miss the home Test series against India. Charith Asalanka, who had been appointed vice-captain, will now lead the team. This marks a strong comeback for Asalanka in the T20 format after having been dropped for the tour of the West Indies in June.
Pawan Rathnayake and Dilshan Madushanka join the squad
- Batter Pawan Rathnayake has been included in the T20I squad to replace the injured Kusal Mendis.
- Additionally, fast bowler Binura Fernando has been ruled out of the T20I series due to a back injury. Left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka has been brought into the team as his replacement.
The first match of the T20I series between England and Sri Lanka will be played on September 15 at The Rose Bowl in Southampton.
Sri Lanka's Updated Squad for England T20I Series
Charith Asalanka (Captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Lahiru Udara, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Tharindu Rathnayake, Dushmantha Chameera, Ishan Malinga, Nuwan Thushara, Pawan Rathnayake, Dilshan Madushanka.
