Middle-order
Kusal Mendis
Occupying the vital number three slot, Mendis holds the key to the team’s batting fortunes. Not the one to rely enormously on foot work, his swift hand-eye coordination and uninhibited approach can place the opposition under immense pressure. Seeing as the pitches are likely to suit his style of batting, it is imperative for the right-hander to get himself in before attempting extravagant strokes.
Dinesh Chandimal
Capable of taking the attack to even world-class bowlers, Chandimal is the lynchpin of Sri Lanka’s batting lineup. In the absence of Mathews, his role within the group assumes extra importance. Considering the frailties in the middle-order and its vulnerability to alarming collapses, the 27-year-old needs to be at his very best in order to help his side tackle a threatening bowling attack.
Kusal Perera
With a slot in the middle-order opening up, the team management have to choose between the game-changing Kusal Janith Perera and the slightly more experienced Chamara Kapugedara. The stylish left-hander is likely to get the nod from a counter-attacking perspective.
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