Karunaratne’s exclusion confirms the perception that he has simply fallen out of favor with the unused variety and training regime. His departure became a Sri Lankan sport in the 2023 ODI International Cup despite having been part of several teams since then.
However, their downward trajectory has coincided with Wickramasinghe’s recovery after strong performances with the bat in the Lanka Premier League in July. He played in the first game of the T20I series against the West Indies, ahead of increasingly spin-friendly surfaces, meaning Dunith Wellalage was more popular than him.
On the bowling front, Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga will lead a strong attack, with Vandersay and Wellalage offering options.
The three-match series will begin on October 20. All three matches will be played in Pallekele.
Sri Lanka T20I squad for sequence against West Indies
Charith Asalanka (captain), Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz
