Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced the squad for the upcoming 2-match Test series against Bangladesh, just two days before it begins. Bangladesh has already announced a 16-man squad with Najmul Hossain Shanto continuing as their captain. The series will commence the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle.
The biggest talking point of the series is Angelo Mathews. The Sri Lanka legend will retire from Test cricket after the first match at the Galle International Cricket Stadium. Angelo is the third-highest run scorer in Sri Lanka’s Test history after making his debut in 2009 as an incredible all-rounder prospect. However, due to fitness issues, Angelo turned into a middle-order batter and crossed the run tally of Sanath Jayasuriya and Marvin Atapattu in his 16-year career.
Changes made after Australia thrashing
The SLC has decided to include six uncapped players in the 18-man squad. These are Lahiru Udara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Pawan Ratnayake, Tharindu Ratnayake and Isitha Wijesundara. Lahiru Kumara was initially selected as well. But he suffered an injury during practice and has been ruled out.
As for the changes, five players have been dropped after a humiliating 0-2 loss against Australia. These players are Sadeera Samarawickrama, Ramesh Mendis, Nishan Peiris, Vishwa Fernando, and Jeffrey Vandersay. Of course, Dimuth Karunaratne has retired and Sri Lanka will have to find an apt replacement for him as well.
Sri Lanka squad for Bangladesh Test series
Pathum Nissanka, Oshada Fernando, Lahiru Udara, Dinesh Chandimal (wk), Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Pavan Rathnayake, Prabath Jayasuriya, Tharindu Ratnayake, Akila Dananjaya, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Kasun Rajitha, Isitha Wijesundara
Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh Tests schedule
- 1st Test: Galle (June 17-21)
- 2nd Test: Colombo (June 25-29)
