Kusal Mendis axed for T20 series against Bangladesh

Colombo [Sri Lanka], April. 3 (ANI): Sri Lanka have left out Kusal Mendis for the two-match T20 series against Bangladesh, beginning tomorrow at the R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Mendis had won the player of the series award for his impressive show in the One-Day International (ODI) series, and thus his exclusion from the squad is a surprise for everyone. Meanwhile, spin-bowling all-rounder Shehan Jayasuriya has been called up in the 16-member squad. Kusal Perera has also been named in the squad, but whether he will play or not will be decided based on his recovery from a thigh strain. If he fails the fitness test, Sandun Weerakkody will take his place. Upul Tharanga leads the side in Angelo Mathews' continued absence. "Kusal Mendis has got a long career ahead of him and we do not want to burden him with too many things," ESPNcricinfo quoted chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya said. "He had a very good Test and ODI series against Bangladesh and at this stage we don't want him to alter too many things in his game." Sri Lanka squad: Upul Tharanga (capt.), Dilshan Munaweera, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Perera (subject to fitness), Lasith Malinga, Isuru Udana, Nuwan Kulasekara, Dasun Shanaka, Vikum Sanjaya, Milinda Siriwardana, Asela Gunaratne, Seekkuge Prasanna, Chamara Kapugedara, Thisara Perera, Lakshan Sandakan, Shehan Jayasuriya. On standby: Sandun Weerakkody (ANI)