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Mendis wants stronger backup options for Sri Lanka

Colombo, Oct 04 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka limited-overs captain Kusal Mendis said the team’s immediate focus is on building a strong pool of players and testing different combinations ahead of the upcoming World Cups, with greater opportunities to be given to emerging players.

Speaking to the media before the national men’s team’s departure for the Pakistan tour, Mendis said the recent T20 matches had provided valuable opportunities for young and inexperienced players to gain international exposure.

He said the objective was to build a well-balanced core of 15 to 17 players for major tournaments while maintaining a wider pool of around 25 players to provide adequate cover.

“We have to give opportunities to new players and see how they perform in different conditions,” Mendis said, stressing the importance of testing combinations during bilateral and multi-team series rather than waiting until a World Cup.

Mendis said the team management was carefully planning each series to assess players’ adaptability to different conditions and identify suitable replacements for key positions.

Reflecting on recent performances, he said the bowling unit had generally executed its plans well and restricted opponents effectively, while the batting had fallen short on some occasions.

However, Mendis expressed confidence in Sri Lanka’s experienced batting options, highlighting Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage and Charith Asalanka.

He said Nissanka, in particular, remained an important player for the team because of his consistency with the bat.

Mendis also acknowledged that tactical mistakes and difficulties in adapting to unfamiliar pitches and overseas conditions had contributed to some recent defeats. He said such experiences would help the players improve as they prepare for future international assignments.

Looking ahead, the captain stressed the importance of having key match-winners available, particularly Nissanka and all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga. At the same time, he said the team needed to develop reliable replacements by giving emerging players regular opportunities at international level.

Sri Lanka will next take part in an ODI Tri-Nation Series in Pakistan featuring the hosts and England, following the conclusion of the T20I series.

The Sri Lanka Cricket Selection Committee has named a 16-member squad for the ODI series, with Mendis appointed captain.

The squad comprises Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Pavan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Sachindu Colombage, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka and Eshan Malinga.

Sri Lanka Cricket said Nissanka will travel with the team only if he is declared medically