Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced that in-form batter Kusal Mendis and three others have been given a break from the upcoming third ODI against New Zealand. Sri Lanka, with an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, are eyeing a clean sweep over Sri Lanka in the final match, scheduled in Pallekele on Tuesday. Kusal Mendis, a wicketkeeper-batter, has played a starring role with scores of 143 and an unbeaten 74 in the two previous rain-shortened matches. Moreover, Kamindu Mendis, Asitha Fernando, and Pathum Nissanka have also been released from the squad.

“The decision was taken by the selectors to give the above players adequate time to recover and prepare for the upcoming Test series in South Africa,” Sri Lanka Cricket said in a release. The two-match Test series between South Africa and Sri Lanka is set to commence on 27 November, with the first match scheduled in Durban. Following the first Test, the teams will head to Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, for the second and final match of the series. Meanwhile, top-order batters Nuwanidu Fernando and Lahiru Udara along with fast bowler Eshan Malinga have been called up in the Sri Lanka squad as cover for the rested players.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan