As Sri Lanka prepares for its upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, the national team faces a significant transition with the departure of two long-serving stalwarts – Dimuth Karunaratne and Angelo Mathews. With Karunaratne already retired and Mathews set to bid farewell after the first Test in Galle (June 17–21), Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is preparing to unveil a refreshed Test squad featuring several newcomers.
- Replacing Karunaratne at the Top
Following Karunaratne’s retirement after his 100th Test against Australia, selectors are weighing two primary options to fill the vacant opening slot next to Pathum Nissanka: Lahiru Udara and Oshada Fernando.
Udara, 29, has impressed in domestic cricket and was included in the squad for the Australia series, although he is yet to debut. Meanwhile, Fernando brings Test experience and was used as a makeshift opener recently. Both remain under consideration, with a final call expected alongside the full squad announcement later this week.
- Mathews’ Middle-Order Successor
Mathews will feature in the first Test before stepping away from Test cricket. To fill the void, selectors are looking at Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha and Pavan Rathnayake
Sooriyabandara, a 25-year-old right-hander is the frontrunner backed by strong performances for Sri Lanka ‘A’. Dinusha, a spin-bowling all-rounder, offers added flexibility with both bat and ball. Pavan Rathnayake, 22, has been on the selectors’ radar for his consistent showing at the ‘A’ level.
- Second Spinner Debate: Ratnayake Leads the Race
With spin-friendly conditions expected, selectors are keen to find a partner for Prabath Jayasuriya.
Tharindu Ratnayake has emerged as the most likely choice, having earned his first Test call-up. The 29-year-old has delivered consistent returns domestically and is considered the leading candidate ahead of Akila Dhananjaya, who was also under consideration.
Jayasuriya remains a certainty in the XI, while either Ratnayake or Akila Dhananjaya will play the role of the 2nd spinner.
- Awaiting Official Confirmation
While SLC has confirmed Mathews’ retirement, the full Test squad for the Bangladesh series is yet to be officially announced.