Sri Lanka opt for youth against West Indies

Colombo: Opting for youth in the post Sangakkara-Jayawradena era, Sri Lankan selectors have drafted in U-19 captain Kusal Mendis into the senior squad for the two-match series against the visiting West Indies.

Mendis comes in as a batsman in addition to his wicket-keeping ability.

He has replaced the veteran Upul Tharanga who failed to impress in the recent home series against India.

Also axed is Jehan Mubarak.

The first Test begins in Galle on October 14 with the second match to be played in Colombo from 22 October.

Sri Lanka squad:

Angelo Mathews (captain) Lahiru Thirimanna (vice-captain) Kaushal Silva, Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal, Kusal Janith Perera, Milinda Siriwardena, Kusal Mendis, Rangana Herath, Dilruwan Perera, Tharundu Kaushal, Dhammika Prasad, Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal, Dushmantha Chameera.