Star all-rounder returns as Sri Lanka name Asia Cup squad
Gearing up to co-host next year's ICC Men's T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka have named a 16-member squad for the Asia Cup.
Charith Asalanka leads a 16-member outfit for the upcoming Asia Cup that features star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga back the mix.
The spin-bowling all-rounder had injured himself during the island nation's series against Bangladesh, and isn't a part of their tour of Zimbabwe, but is expected to be fit for the continental tournament.
Sri Lanka are slotted in Group B of the tournament along with Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong.
Best of Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga | T20WC 2022
Best of Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022
Squad:
Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana
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Apart from Hasaranga, Sri Lanka have a number of pace bowling all-round options at their disposal, including Chamika Karunaratne, and former skipper Dasun Shanaka. Meanwhile, along with Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage, Hasaranga will make up for their premier spin bowling options for the tournament.
The island nation are the second most successful side in Asia Cup, having won the tournament on six occasions, with their most recent win coming in 2022.
Sri Lanka will kickstart their first Asia Cup campaign on September 13 against Bangladesh.