The selection of team captains for the upcoming Sri Lanka-Zimbabwe cricket tournament has sparked criticism, with concerns raised about the chosen players’ leadership qualities. Kusal Mendis, has been named captain of the ODI team. Vanindu Hasaranga, has been appointed captain of the T20 team, with Charith named vice-captain for both squads.
The decision to entrust leadership roles to players who are criticized for their lack of leadership personality has led to strong objections. Additionally, former captain Dasun Shanaka has been included in the squad, and Avishka Fernando and Akila Dhananjaya have made a return after an extended absence. Bhanuka Rajapaksa has also been recalled to the T20 squad.
Meanwhile, the service contracts of fast-bowling coach Darshan Gamage and fielding coach Manoj Abeywickrama, who served as assistant coaches, have ended. Sri Lanka Cricket is reportedly working to retain Piyal Wijetunga as the head spin coach despite continuous failures and concerns about his impact on the careers of spinners in the Sri Lankan squad.
