Right-handed batsman Oshada Fernando found his way into the national setup as Sri Lanka named an 18-man squad for their upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh. The 30-year-old Fernando was dropped for the Test series against India earlier this year but managed to back his claim on the Sri Lankan side after an impressive performance in the National Super League 4-day tournament.
Playing for Kandy, the right-handed batsman scored 721 runs in six matches at an average of 80.11 with four centuries and three half-centuries. Pathum Nisanka, who missed the second Test against India due to a back injury, could not recover in time. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has also named uncapped Kamil Mishara and Dilshan Madushanka for the red-ball series.
Even though Mishara has already played T20Is for Sri Lanka, Madushanka is yet to wear the national jersey. Lahiru Thirimanne, Charit Aslanka, Dushmantha Chamira and Lahiru Kumara were not roped in for the series. Right-arm pacer Kasun Rajita has also made a comeback after playing the last Test against South Africa in 2020.
Meanwhile, Kamindu Mendis replaced Roschen Silva, who “was included in the original squad but indicated an inability to tour.” Jeffrey Vandersay, who did not get a chance to play in India despite being in the team, has been dropped. Asitha Fernando, Ramesh Mendis and Suminda Lakshan have been included in the team.
Sri Lanka team
Dimuth Karunaratne (Captain), Kamil Mishara, Oshada Fernando, Angelo Mathews, Kusal Mendis, Dhananjay de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Niroshan Dickwella, Dinesh Chandimal, Ramesh Mendis, Chamika Karunaratne, Suminda Lakshan, Kasun Rajitha, Vishwa Madushando, Asitha Jayavikrama, Lasith Embuldeniya