SSC benches Kusal and Shanaka for choosing franchise over club
Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) have left out Kusal Mendis and Dasun Shanaka from their playing XI for the SLC Major Club Tier ‘B’ 3-day match, against Negombo CC despite both players requesting to be considered for selection. The decision follows their move to leave the domestic tournament earlier in the season to take part in franchise cricket in Dubai.
SSC had informed its players that they would not be permitted to feature in overseas franchise leagues during the ongoing domestic campaign, where the club is competing in Tier ‘B’ after being relegated from the top division. The club is keen to secure promotion back to Tier ‘A’, making player availability a priority. However, Mendis and Shanaka defied the directive after receiving permission from Sri Lanka Cricket to participate in the ILT20.
“This is a very important year for us and we will play them as and when necessary,” a club spokesman said.
Both players have since returned to the country after Sri Lanka Cricket recalled all contracted players to prepare for the home T20 International series against Pakistan, which begins early next month.