Rathnayake's Exclusion Is The Strategic Choice

Sri Lanka's interim head coach addresses the tough selection dilemmas for the Galle Test.

Sri Lanka faces a unique challenge: an abundance of fast bowlers, a rarity for the national team in recent years. In their latest Test at The Oval, Sri Lanka’s pace attack demolished England, claiming 156 runs in a crucial third innings. Yet, as they prepare for the Galle Test—known for its dry conditions—they find themselves unable to utilise four specialist seamers, forcing them to omit key players.

Interim coach Sanath Jayasuriya discussed the careful consideration behind Milan Rathnayake's omission. Despite a strong debut series in which Rathnayake took 11 wickets and contributed valuable runs with scores of 72 at Old Trafford and 43 at Lord's, the team had to make strategic choices.

"When it comes to selecting a third fast bowler, we're talking about one of our top talents," Jayasuriya remarked. "In his last series, Rathnayake excelled both with the ball and bat. However, for Galle, we need to incorporate spinners to achieve the right team balance."

This decision leads to the inclusion of spinners Prabath Jayasuriya and Ramesh Mendis in the lineup.

"Milan deserves special mention for his impressive performance on his first tour," Jayasuriya noted. "He played like a seasoned cricketer. Unfortunately, he won't be included in this XI as we can only select two pace bowlers. Everyone understands the Galle pitch conditions, and we've opted for our top two seamers: Asitha Fernando and Lahiru Kumara."

"It’s important to stress that Milan's exclusion isn't due to any shortcomings. I've personally spoken with him to clarify the reasons behind this decision, so he understands fully. The other players recognize that Milan's exit from the team comes after performing well."

Vishwa Fernando, another fast bowler who impressed at The Oval, has also been left out as the selectors prioritise Kumara's express pace.

Another key selection issue revolves around the wicketkeeping position. Dinesh Chandimal, who began as a keeper in the previous match, sustained a back injury during the second innings. Having faced additional setbacks earlier due to a thumb injury, he will now move up the batting order to No. 3, while Kusal Mendis will don the gloves, likely batting at No. 7.

"Chandimal won’t be keeping, and that’s a collective decision," Jayasuriya explained. "We had to weigh who would bat at No. 3. It’s challenging for a No. 3 batsman to also keep wickets. Chandimal has taken on the responsibility to bat at No. 3 for the team and country. We must prioritise his well-being and bolster his confidence."

Sri Lanka has decided to elevate Kamindu Mendis to No. 5, a position previously held by Chandimal, while Kusal Mendis takes over Kamindu’s former role at No. 7.

"We had extensive discussions on how to approach these complex decisions. We consulted with Chandimal regarding moving him up in the order, necessitating another addition to the middle order. Introducing a wicketkeeper in the lower middle order optimally balances our team."