Malinga is back, but that shows many problems
SRI LANKA would have hoped to be meeting Australia at the Oval today, to continue their Champions Trophy preparations, with two comfortable wins under their belt.
However, their two-match series against Scotland yielded just a single victory.
Dinesh Chandimal and Kusal Perera both scored half-centuries as Sri Lanka were bowled out in the final over for 287 of the first clash but the tourists managed just three wickets as Scotland cruised to victory.
There was better news for Sri Lanka two days later though as Scotland were bowled out for 166, Lakshan Sandakan taking 4-39, which the visitors reached in 23 overs.
Two such contrasting performances it is hard to imagine but it would appear that new fast bowling consultant Allan Donald has plenty to work on with his new side.
The lack of depth in Sri Lanka’s fast bowling stocks is only made more apparent by the recall of Lasith Malinga to the Champions Trophy squad.
The 33-year-old has been a key part of the Mumbai Indians during the most recent IPL but hasn’t played an ODI for his country since November 2015.
“Malinga playing in the IPL was to our advantage, because he was in a topclass cricketing environment,” said SLC president Thilanga Sumathipala.
“We have to make sure he’s fit to bowl ten overs. Match fitness is what he’s lacking now – his physical fitness is superb.”
Elsewhere, there’s a recall for Chamara Kapugedera, who has not featured since January 2016, and Nuwan Pradeep, who was wicketless against Scotland.
Seekkuge Prasanna and Sandakan will provide the wrist-spin options with the squad heading into the tournament without a recognised finger spinner.