Teenagers Sewwandi, Thimashini in new-look SL squad for SA tour

Sri Lanka have named a new-look squad for their tour of South Africa next month, with no less than eight changes being made to the side that bowed out in the group stage of the Women's World T20 last year. The uncapped duo of Tharika Sewwandi, 18, and Umesha Thimashini, 17, alongside Harshitha Madavi, Kavisha Dilhari and Imalka Mendis, are among five players aged 25 or under included in the squad. Thimashini's inclusion is subject to fitness.

Others returning to the squad are batsman Prasadani Weerakkody, wicketkeeper Anushka Sanjeewani, medium pacer Achini Kulasuriya and veteran spinner Inoka Ranaweera.

Making way are several old hands such as Yasoda Mendis, 32, Eshani Lokusuriyage, 34, Dilani Manodara, 36, Inoshi Fernando, 31, and Sripali Weerakody, 33. Fast bowler Ama Kanchana, who had a forgettable World T20, and spinner Sugandika Kumari have also been omitted.

"Sripali has been left out due to personal reasons, the others however are now over 30 and they've been given several chances with national side," SLC women's cricket chief selector Rasanjali de Alwis said.

While youngsters have being given prominence in the squad, de Alwis also stressed the importance of striking the right balance. As such experience hasn't been ignored completely, with the likes of Ranaweera, former captain Shashikala Siriwardena, Weerakkody, veteran seamer Udeshika Prabodhani and spinner Oshadi Ranasinghe making up a core contingent of players 30 and above.

"Now it's time to plan for the next World Cup and give some of the younger players a chance. We hope the senior players will be able to offer their experience and guide the younger players going forward.".

Sri Lanka will play three ODIs and three T20Is in South Africa, with the first ODI scheduled for February 1 in Cape Town.