Colombo, Jan 11, 2.50PM – In a crucial move, Sri Lanka’s teenage batsman, Shevon Daniel, marked his One Day International (ODI) debut, while Wanindu Hasaranga returned to the side after an eight-month hiatus, replacing Jeffrey Vandersay. The decision came as Zimbabwe opted to bat first in the third and final Nippon Paint ODI held at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Nineteen-year-old Shevon Daniel, a former left-handed star from St Joseph’s College and Sinhalese Sports Club, proudly earned the ODI cap as the 212th player for Sri Lanka. Daniel, positioned at number three, steps into the shoes of his role model, the legendary Sri Lankan player Kumar Sangakkara. The opening duo for Sri Lanka will feature Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s return to the squad sees him taking over from the leg spinner Jeffrey Vandersay, who showcased fine performances in the last matches. Sahan Arachchige retains his place and is slated to bat at number seven.
A noteworthy change involves Shevon Daniel taking the place of the experienced Dasun Shanaka. Despite being a top-order batter, Daniel’s inclusion allows for a smooth reshuffling in the order. With Daniel now at one-drop, Sadeera Samarawickrama secures his permanent position at number four.
This strategic shake-up in the lineup aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s performance in the final encounter of the Nippon Paint ODI series against Zimbabwe.
Sri Lanka XI: 1 Kusal Mendis (wk), 2 Avishka Fernando, 3 Shevon Daniel, 4 Sadeera Samarawickrama, 5 Janith Liyanage, 6 Charith Asalanka (vc), 7 Sahan Arachchige, 8 Wanindu Hasaranga, 9 Maheesh Theekshana, 10 Dushmantha Chameera, 11 Dilshan Madushanka.
Zimbabwe XI: 1 Joylord Gumbie (wk), 2 Takudzwanashe Kaitano, 3 Craig Erwine (c), 4 Milton Shumba, 5 Sikandar Raza, 6 Ryan Burl, 7 Clive Mandande, 8 Wellington Masakadza, 9 Luke Jongwe, 10 Richard Ngarava, 11 Blessing Muzarabani.