THIRIMANNE
RECALLED FOR NEW ZEALAND TESTS
The new National Cricket Selection Committee yesterday recalled Lahiru Thirimanne to the Sri Lanka Test Squad for the two-test series against New Zealand later this month.
Dinesh Chandimal also returns to lead the side after recovering from a groin injury.
The Ashantha de Mel-led Committee also called up Sadeera Samarawickrema – who, like Thirimanne, was last capped during last year’s tour of India – along with fast bowlers Nuwan Pradeep and Lahiru Kumara.
Kumara returns after being dropped for the recent Test series against England on disciplinary grounds.
Meanwhile, Pradeep last featured during Sri Lanka’s series win against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), but his absence has been due to injury or having his workload being managed, and is one of five fast bowlers in the 17-member squad.
Akila Dananjaya, who missed Sri Lanka’s last Test against England in order to have his action tested in Australia, is not included in the squad as his results are yet to be released.
The only other player to miss out is Kaushal Silva, who had a less than impressive return to Tests.
Silva made 41 runs in four innings, with 30 of those coming in one stay at the crease.
The first Test begins on December 15 at the Basin Reserve, Wellington, while the second Test will commence on Boxing Day at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch.