Possible new faces in white-ball lineup against Windies

Sri Lanka’s National Cricket Selection Committee is expected to pick young fast-bowling all-rounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe and aggressive batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa for the upcoming West Indies series. The tour commences on October 13 at the Dambulla International Cricket Stadium with three T20 matches, followed by three ODIs at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Although the official squad is yet to be announced, Chamindu Wickramasinghe is likely to replace Dasun Shanaka.

Bhanuka Rajapaksa, who last played a T20 International in January 2023, may also return based on his recent performances in franchise leagues. Chamindu Wickramasinghe, 21, made his T20 debut earlier this year against India (which Sri Lanka lost 0-3).

Two key Sri Lankan pacemen, Matheesha Pathirana and Nuwan Thushara, are also expected to join the squad, but their fitness will be assessed before the series. Charith Asalanka will lead the Sri Lankan team for the white-ball series.

Sri Lanka, fresh off three straight Test wins, will now focus on white-ball cricket as they prepare for the West Indies and New Zealand tours.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced their squads for the T20 and ODI series. However several senior players, including Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Akeal Hosein and Shimron Hetmyer have opted out of the tour for personal reasons, and opening the door for newer faces and returning players. Rovman Powell the all rounder will lead T -20 side, with Roston Chase continuing in his role as Vice-Captain.

Head Coach Daren Sammy, who now leads on selection under the revamped selection system, noted the importance of this series in evaluating players for key roles and understanding the conditions ahead of future ICC Tournaments.

The tour of Sri Lanka gives us a chance to test our depth and assess players in different situations, especially with several senior players missing out for various reasons, including a need for rest and rehabilitation from injury. We are confident in the squad’s ability to compete strongly against Sri Lanka, stated coach Daren Sammy the former West Indies skipper who led the team to take T -20 world cup in 2012.

In addition West Indies ODI squad is set to face Sri Lanka in a three-match series from 20 to 27 October. Shai Hope will continue as Captain, with Vice-Captain support from Alzarri Joseph. This series provides an opportunity for CWI to focus on building its ODI team ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.

A notable inclusion is Jewel Andrew, the young Antiguan wicketkeeper-batsman who has impressed and earned his place in the squad. The squad also sees the return of several key players, including Brandon King and Sherfane Rutherford.

Head Coach Sammy, remarked on the ODI squad’s balance and potential for growth: “As we continue to build our ODI team, this tour offers a valuable opportunity to evaluate strategies and give opportunities to emerging talent. We are excited to see young players like Jewel Andrew, who has earned his place as an exciting prospect for the future,” added Daren Sammy.

West Indies T20I Squad: Rovman Powell (Captain), Roston Chase (Vice Captain),Fabian Allen, Alick Athanaze, Andre Fletcher, Terrance Hinds, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer.

West Indies ODI Squad: Shai Hope (Captain), Alzarri Joseph (Vice-Captain), Jewel Andrew, Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty,Roston Chase,Matthew Forde, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Hayden Walsh Jr.