SRI LANKA CRICKET NEWS
Complied by Victor Melder
(JULY 2023)
Fast bowler Lahiru Kumara, who walked off the field with an injury during Sri Lanka’s Super Six win over the Netherlands on Friday, has been ruled out for the rest of the Cricket World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe. Kumara was diagnosed with a side strain, which has now ruled him out of Sri Lanka’s remaining matches, with uncapped all-rounder Sahan Arachchige, who was one of the three standby players who were already in Zimbabwe, called up as a replacement. Kumara becomes the second Sri Lankan fast bowler to be ruled out mid-tournament, after Dushmantha Chameera was ruled out on Tuesday, replaced by left-armer Dilshan Madushanka. Sri Lanka next face hosts Zimbabwe tomorrow in their penultimate Super Six match, with the winner guaranteed a place in October’s World Cup. (Daily Mirror, 1.7.2023)
Sri Lanka beat the West Indies by 8 wickets to win the 29th Match, Super Six Match, ICC World Cup Qualifier, played at Harare Sports Club. Scores:
West Indies – 243 in 48.1 Overs (Carty 87, Charles 39, Shepherd 26, Sinclair 25, Theekshana 4/34, Hemantha 2/40)
Sri Lanka – 244/2 in 44.2 Overs (Nissanka 104, Karunaratne 84, Mendis 34no, Sinclair 1/52, Hosein 1/54)
Player of the Match: Maheesh Theekshana (Sri Lanka)
ODI Debut: Shan Arachchige (Sri Lanka)
Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva has been reprimanded by the International Cricket Council (ICC) over what it said was the abuse under category of “ground equipment, fixtures or fittings” during Sri Lanka’s World Cup qualifying round match against the Netherlands in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe last week. In this case Hasaranga was charged under the ICC Code of Conduct for “hitting the boundary skirtings with his bat in an aggressive manner” after he was dismissed for 20 against the Netherlands on his return to the pavilion. It was the second time that Hasaranga’s disciplinary record had taken a hit which meant that he now has two demerit points. Hasaranga’s conduct was in breach of a Level 1 nature and the minimum punishment for such an offence is a Reprimand as opposed to a 50 per cent match fee fine and two demerit points. He needs another two demerit points to add to his current two points to be banned for a Test match or two white ball games whichever comes first within a 24-month period. The ICC said the charges were levelled by on-field umpires Martin Saggers and Greg Brathwaite, third umpire Jayaraman Madanagopal and fourth umpire Asif Yaqoob. (Sunday Observer, 9.7.2023)
Sri Lanka beat the Netherlands by 128 runs to win the Finals, ICC World Cup Qualifier, played at Harare Sports Club. Scores:
Sri Lanka: 233 in 47.5 Overs (Arachchige 57, Mendis 43, Asalanka 36, Hasaranga 29, Singh 2/12, van Beek 2/40, Klein 2/42)
Netherlands: 105 in 23.3 Overs (O’Dowd 33, van Beek 20, Theekshana 4/31, Madushanka 3/18, Hasaranga 2/35)
Player of the Match: Dilshan Madushanka (Sri Lanka)
Player of the Series: Sean Williams (Zimbabwe)
ODI Debut: Noah Croes (Netherlands)
Pakistan cricket team led by Babar Azam arrived yesterday here to play two Test match series which will commence on July 16 at Galle International cricket stadium. Pakistan team will play a two-day warm-up game on July 11 and 12 at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium Hambantota, before moving into Galle to play the first Test Match. The first Test will be played from July 16 to 20 at Galle while the second will commence at the SSC, Colombo, on July 24. This test series is a part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023–25. The Two teams played their last Test series at Galle while ended in a one all draw. Meanwhile Pakistan have named a 16-member squad for their upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka The squad is strengthened by the return of star pacer Shaheen Afridi, who last featured in the longer format in July 2022 when he suffered a knee injury in a Test against Sri Lanka. Pakistan have also decided to include two uncapped players in the squad, with batsman Mohammad Huraira and all-rounder Aamir Jamal getting call-ups. The squad will be led by Babar Azam, who will have the services of fellow stars like Mohammad Rizwan, Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Hasan Ali and Naseem Shah available at his disposal. The two Test matches will form a part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25. Sri Lanka already named 15 member Test squad and it is subject to approval from the Sports Minister. Dimuth Karunaratne once again will lead the Sri Lanka Test team while two experienced players Angelo Matthews who is in terrific form having back to back three centuries at ongoing Major clubs three day tournament and Dinesh Chandimal are among 15 member squad. However selectors not included Pathum Nissanka for this squad as he has hectic schedule at white ball format while Nishan Madushka the wicket keeper with Dimuth Karunaratne named as openers while promising off spinner Lakshitha Mansinghe recalled for the squad with regular off spinner Ramesh Mendis. Manasinghe with two five wickets hauls against South Africa A in their Sri Lanka A series recently while leg spinner Praveen Jayawickrama also in the squad with key leggie Prabath Jayasuriya. Three paceman Kasun Rajitha, Vishwa Fernando and Asitha Fernando are in the squad but Asitha who is recovering from Dengue Fever most probably out from first test at Galle and left arm paceman Dilshan Madushanka is named as replacement for first Test. Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis are named as middle order batters while number three batter Kusal Mendis also in the squad.
Sri Lanka Test squad for Pakistan series (subjected to approval from the sports Minister) Dimuth Karunaratne (Captain), Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Nishan Madushka (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Lakshitha Manasinghe, Praveen Jayawickrema, Asitha Fernando/Dilshan Madushka, Vishwa Fernando, Kasun Rajitha.
Pakistan Test squad: Babar Azam (Capt), Mohammad Rizwan (v.captain & wk), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi and Shan Masood. (Daily News, 10.7.2023)
Opener Pathum Nissanka was recalled to Sri Lanka’s Test team, ahead of the two-Test series against Pakistan, having missed the country’s last two red-ball assignments. Also returning to the Test squad, named for the first Test that starts in Galle on Sunday, are Praveen Jayawickrama and Kasun Rajitha, while left-arm fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka and Lakshitha Manasinghe who have previously toured but are yet to be capped, also being included. With captain Dimuth Karunaratne nursing a hamstring injury, and remaining uncertain for the first Test, Nissanka could be drafted into the team for the first Test, joining Nishan Madushka at the top of the order. Madushanka, meanwhile, is one of three frontline fast bowling options available to Sri Lanka, being included in place of Asitha Fernando, who is recovering from dengue. The left-arm fast bowler impressed during the South Africa ‘A’ tour of Sri Lanka, eventually earning a spot in contingent that travelled to Zimbabwe for the Cricket World Cup Qualifier.
Sri Lanka squad: Dimuth Karunaratne – Captain, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya De Silva – Vice Captain, Pathum Nissanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Praveen Jayawickrama, Kasun Rajitha, Dilshan Madushanka, Vishwa Fernando, Laksitha Manasinghe (Daily Mirror, 14.7.2023)
The opening match between the touring Pakistanis and the Sri Lanka Cricket President’s XI, played at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, Sooriyawewa, Hambantota, ended in a draw. Scores:
SLPXI, 1st innings: 196 (Fernando113, K. Mendis 21, Ali 3/22, Afridi 3/37, Jamal 2/33, Ahmed 2/52).
Pakistan, 1st Innings: 342 (Masood 83, Azam 79, Shakeel 61, ul-Haq 36, Manasinghe 4/82, Jayawickrama 2/89)
SLPXI, 2nd Innings: 88/4 (N. Fernando 31no, Dhananjaya 26no, Salman 2/18
The touring Pakistani’s beat Sri Lanka by 4 wickets to win the first Test played at the Galle International Stadium. Scores:
Sri Lanka, 1st Innings: 312 (de Silva 122, Mathews 64, Samarawickrama 36, Karunaratne 29, Ahmed 3/68, Afridi 3/86, Shah 3/90)
Pakistan, 1st Innings: 461 (Shakeel 208, Salman 83, Masood 39, Ali 25, Mendis 5/136, Jayasuriya 3/45)
Sri Lanka, 2nd Innings: 279 (de Silva 82, Madushka 52, Mendis 42, Chandima 28, Ahmed 3/68, Ali 3/75)
Pakistan, 2nd Innings: 133/6 (ul-Haq 50no, Shakeel 30, Azam 24, Jayasinghe 4/56, Mendis 1/62.
Player of the Match: Saud Shakeel (Pakistan)
Points: Pakistan 12, Sri Lanka 0.
Dimuth Karunaratne has requested the national cricket selection committee to reconsider his request to step down as Sri Lanka’s Test captain. Karunaratne had previously asked selectors to relieve him of captaincy ahead of the Ireland Test series earlier this year, but he was asked to continue in the role. Karunaratne reiterated his desire to pass on the captaincy following Sri Lanka’s four-wicket loss to Pakistan in Galle on Thursday. “After I made that request they asked me to continue if possible for a little longer. But I’ve told them after this series to reconsider my request, because I would really like to put my full focus on my batting, and support the team the best I can for the rest of ny career,” Karunaratne said. “There are a few guys in the team who are suitable to be captain, but it’s not a decision that’s up to me because it’s a discussion that needs to be had with the selection committee.” “Our next Test series is in February next year, so there is a long enough time for a new captain to be appointed,” Karunaratne added. Karunaratne has captained Sri Lanka in 29 Tests, and has seen a marked improvement in his batting stats since 2019, when he took over from Dinesh Chandimal. (Daily Mirror, 21.7.2023)
Lahiru Thirimanne has officially declared his retirement from international cricket, effective immediately.The decision comes after several illustrious years of representing the nation on the global stage and leaving an indelible mark on the game. Throughout his remarkable career, Thirimanne has exemplified the true spirit of cricket, exhibiting unmatched dedication and commitment to the sport he loves. With countless memorable performances, he has etched his name in the annals of cricketing history, earning the admiration and respect of fans and fellow players alike. Thirimanne acknowledged the privilege of representing his country and the countless blessings cricket has bestowed upon him. He expressed his gratitude to all those who supported and guided him on his journey. In a heartfelt statement, Thirimanne said, “It has been an absolute honour to represent my country for the past few years. This game has given me so much over the years. But with a lot of mixed feelings, I am here to announce my retirement from international cricket with immediate effect.” As a player who consistently gave his best and held the game’s integrity in high regard, Thirimanne leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come. His departure from the international stage marks the end of an era, with fans reminiscing about his extraordinary contributions and unforgettable moments on the pitch. Throughout his career, he displayed humility and camaraderie, earning the admiration of his fellow cricketers and officials. Moreover, Thirimanne expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his loyal fans, supporters, and journalists for their unwavering love and support throughout his journey. Their encouragement and motivation fueled him to achieve greatness and conquer new milestones in his career. Despite the challenges he faced, the retiring star remained steadfast and true to his commitment to the game. As the cricketing universe bids farewell to a legendary player, Thirimanne will forever remain an icon of the sport, and his legacy will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of cricketers to reach for greatness on and off the field. The impact of his retirement will be felt not only in Sri Lanka but across the global cricketing community. (Ceylon Today, 24.7.2023)
Sri Lanka fast bowler Asitha Fernando has been reprimanded for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the third day of the second Test against Pakistan in Colombo on Wednesday. Fernando was found to have breached Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct which relates to “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match.” The incident happened during the third day’s play in Colombo when Fernando broke a stubborn century stand between Abdullah Shafique and Saud Shakeel by dismissing the latter.After the dismissal, Fernando was deemed to have gone close to the batter and celebrated the dismissal in an inappropriate manner. Fernando admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by David Boon of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, so there was no need for a formal hearing. This is the first offence for Fernando in a 24-month period and as such one demerit point has been added to his disciplinary record.When a player reaches four or more demerit points within a 24-month period, they are converted into suspension points and a player is banned. Two suspension points equate to a ban from one Test or two ODIs or two T20Is, whatever comes first for the player. Pakistan finished the day on 563/5, accumulating a massive lead of 397. (Daily Mirror, 27.7.2023)
The touring Pakistani’s beat Sri Lanka by an Innings and 222 runs in four days to win the second and final Test match played at the SSC Grounds, Colombo. Scores:
Sri Lanka, 1st Innings – 166 (de Silva 57, Chandimal 34, Mendis 24, Ahmed 4/69, Shah 3/41)
Pakistan, 1st Innings – 576/5 dec (Shafigue 201, Salman 132no, Shakeel 57, Masood 51, Rizwan 50no, Fernando 3/130, Jayasuriya 2/194)
Sri Lanka, 2nd Innings – 188 (Mathews 63no, Karunaratne 41, Madushsnka 33, Ali 7/70, Shah 3/44)
Pakistan won the 2-match series 2-0
Test Debut: Dilshan Madushanka (Sri Lanka)
Player of the Match: Abdullah Shafique (Pakistan)
Player of the Series: Agha Salman (Pakistan)
