Youth player Viran Chamuditha breaks into Sri Lanka ‘A’ setup
Sri Lanka Under-19 cricketer Viran Chamuditha is among 29 players in line to feature in the forthcoming Sri Lanka ‘A’ series against New Zealand ‘A’ next month, as selectors cast a wide net in a tour designed to blend youth with experience. The series will consist of three 50-over matches followed by two four-day unofficial Test fixtures, offering opportunities across formats.Chamuditha, a left-handed batter, forced his way into contention after an impressive ICC Under-19 World Cup campaign where he struck two commanding centuries – 192 against Japan and 110 against South Africa. Those performances not only highlighted his temperament, but also convinced the selectors to fast-track him into the senior pathway. The youngster is a product of St. Servatius College, Matara, the alma mater of one of Sri Lanka’s greatest cricketers, Sanath Jayasuriya, adding further intrigue to his rise.
Sources indicated that the two squads will also feature several players with national exposure, including Pavan Rathnayake, Kamil Mishara, Nishan Madushka, Milan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Lahiru Udara and Sonal Dinusha. Their inclusion reflects the selectors’ intention to maintain a strong core while blooding emerging talent.
Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who has enjoyed a prolific domestic season averaging 55.94, is expected to lead the four-day side. Meanwhile, Sahan Arachchige is tipped to captain the limited-overs outfit. The tour is seen as a crucial preparatory exercise for national assignments, allowing fringe players to stake claims while ensuring depth in the national pool.
The selectors are using this series not only to prepare established players for upcoming international commitments but also to expose young cricketers to higher competition and keep them ready for national duty when opportunities arise.
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