Sri Lanka’s squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 has the potential to be the tournament’s dark horse. Under the leadership of Wanindu Hasaranga, a premier all-rounder, Sri Lanka boasts a potent bowling attack and a dynamic batting lineup.

Sri Lanka’s ability to perform under pressure, combined with its strategic depth, makes it a formidable opponent capable of surprising higher-ranked teams. Its unique mix of traditional cricketing strengths and innovative tactics positions it as a team to watch in the T20 World Cup, with a real chance to make a deep run in the tournament.

1. Pathum Nissanka

Nissanka has been a reliable top-order batsman known for his solid technique and ability to anchor the innings. His performances in recent T20Is have been pivotal for Sri Lanka. With 1,231 runs in nearly 50 T20Is at an average of almost 30 and a strike rate of almost 120, Nissanka will be crucial in providing solid starts for Sri Lanka.

2. Kusal Mendis

Mendis is an aggressive opener who can change the game’s dynamics with his quick scoring. His experience and ability to play big innings are crucial for setting up strong starts. He has scored over 1500 runs in 64 T20Is with a strike rate of 135. His ability to accelerate the innings and provide stability at the top order will be vital for Sri Lanka

3. Kamindu Mendis

Known for his ambidextrous bowling, Kamindu is a versatile player who adds depth to both batting and bowling. His ability to adapt quickly makes him a valuable asset. In 17 T20Is, he has scored 209 runs with a strike rate of over 135.

4. Sadeera Samarawickrama

A consistent performer in the middle order, Samarawickrama has a knack for building partnerships and accelerating the run rate when needed. He has accumulated 309 runs in 18 T20Is at a strike rate of 110, making him a key player in anchoring the innings.

5. Charith Asalanka (vc)

Asalanka, the vice-captain, is known for his aggressive batting style and ability to handle pressure situations. His leadership skills and middle-order stability are crucial for the team. He brings stability and aggression to the middle order. With nearly 1000 runs in 44 T20Is at a strike rate of 124.66, Asalanka’s ability to play impactful innings is crucial for Sri Lanka’s success.

6. Angelo Mathews

The veteran all-rounder brings a wealth of experience and leadership. Mathews is known for his dependable batting and handy medium-pace bowling, making him a key figure in the lineup. With over a decade of experience, Angelo Mathews has scored 1357 runs in 85 T20Is at a strike rate of 125.22 and taken 45 wickets. His all-round skills and leadership will be invaluable in high-pressure situations.

7. Dasun Shanaka

Shanaka, a former T20I captain, is an explosive middle-order batsman and a useful seam bowler. His ability to finish games and provide breakthroughs with the ball is invaluable. He has scored 1,444 runs in almost 100 T20Is at a strike rate of 123 and claimed 31 wickets, making him a key player in both batting and bowling departments.

8. Wanindu Hasaranga (c)

Hasaranga, the captain, is one of the premier leg-spinners in the world. His all-round capabilities and leadership are expected to drive Sri Lanka’s campaign. He is one of the top spin-bowling all-rounders in the world. In 65 T20Is, he has taken 104 wickets with an impressive economy rate of 6.84 and scored 498 runs at a strike rate of 117.23, reflecting his match-winning potential.

9. Maheesh Theekshana

Theekshana’s mystery spin has troubled many top batsmen. His ability to bowl economically in the powerplay and middle overs makes him a key bowler for Sri Lanka. He has been a revelation for Sri Lanka. With 44 wickets in 46 T20Is at an economy rate of 6.80, Theekshana’s ability to control the run flow and pick crucial wickets makes him a significant asset.

10. Matheesha Pathirana

Known for his slinging action reminiscent of Lasith Malinga, Pathirana adds a unique element to the pace attack. His death bowling skills are particularly notable. He has taken 11 wickets in 6 T20Is with an economy rate of 8.10. His unique bowling style adds an X-factor to Sri Lanka’s bowling attack.

11. Nuwan Thushara

Thushara’s ability to swing the ball both ways and his deceptive pace make him a dangerous bowler, especially in the early overs and during the powerplay. He has claimed 11 wickets in 8 T20Is at an economy rate of 8.18. His ability to bowl in the death overs will be crucial for Sri Lanka in tight matches.

Analysis

Sri Lanka’s predicted XI reflects a well-rounded team with a blend of experience and youth. The inclusion of experienced players like Angelo Mathews and Dasun Shanaka provides stability, while young talents such as Pathum Nissanka and Kamindu Mendis bring energy and dynamism.

Wanindu Hasaranga’s leadership, combined with the strategic acumen of vice-captain Charith Asalanka, is expected to create a strong team environment. Hasaranga’s bowling attack, featuring a mix of pace and spin, promises to be both economical and wicket-taking.

Sri Lanka’s batting lineup, featuring aggressive openers and solid middle-order batsmen, is designed to handle various match situations, from building a solid foundation to accelerating the scoring rate in the death overs. The all-round capabilities of players like Shanaka and Mathews add depth to both the batting and bowling departments.

Sri Lanka’s predicted XI for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 is a blend of experience, youth, and versatility. With seasoned campaigners like Angelo Mathews and rising stars like Pathum Nissanka, Sri Lanka is well-equipped to challenge any team in the tournament. The leadership of Wanindu Hasaranga and the support from experienced players like Dasun Shanaka and Kusal Mendis will be pivotal in guiding the team through the high-pressure World Cup matches. As they face formidable opponents in Group D, the balance and depth of this squad could well be the key to their success in the West Indies and USA.

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