In a significant shake-up for Sri Lankan cricket, former fast bowler Pramodya Wickramasinghe has been appointed to head Sri Lanka’s new national selection committee, tasked with picking both men’s and women’s senior squads.
This fresh panel includes ex-cricketers Vinothen John, Indika de Saram, Rasanjali de Alwis (nee Silva), and Tharanga Paranavitana, blending experience from across eras. The announcement comes at a pivotal time for the Lankans, with skipper Chamari Athapaththu’s side gearing up for a challenging five-match T20I series in India against Harmanpreet Kaur’s team from December 21 to 30, 2025, ahead of the 10th ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales next year.
Wickramasinghe steps back into the hot seat after serving as chief selector from 2021 to 2023, a tenure cut short by Sri Lanka’s (men) dismal showing at the 2023 World Cup. He previously contributed to a selection committee under Sanath Jayasuriya, now the head coach, between 2013 and 2015. This new committee replaces the one led by Upul Tharanga, which has now been disbanded, though it retains some continuity with Paranavitana and de Saram, both of whom served under Tharanga.
Sri Lanka Cricket chief executive Ashley de Silva shed light on the appointment process, emphasising collaboration with the sports ministry. “Sri Lanka Cricket sends a list of about ten names to the ministry, and they have chosen from that,” de Silva told ESPNcricinfo. “There is no term as such. The appointment is until further notice.” He added that the Tharanga panel had simply reached the end of its term, with no internal push to extend it through the men’s T20 World Cup in February-March 2026.
The timing feels especially crucial for women’s cricket enthusiasts. For the women’s side, Wickramasinghe and his team will shape Chamari Athapaththu’s squad amid a packed calendar. The upcoming India tour offers a stern test against a formidable host, honing skills for the 2026 T20 World Cup hosted by England and Wales from June 12 to July 5.
All five selectors bring international pedigree, having represented Sri Lanka at the highest level. Paranavitana and de Saram remained active in domestic cricket into this decade, while Vinothen John, the panel’s elder statesman, last played for the national side in 1987. Rasanjali de Alwis adds a vital women’s perspective; her experience is poised to guide selections as Sri Lanka aims to rebuild momentum on both fronts.
This revamped committee signals Sri Lanka’s intent to inject fresh strategic thinking, particularly as the women’s game surges globally. With Wickramasinghe’s tactical nous at the helm, expect bold calls that could redefine the Lankans’ fortunes in bilateral battles and World Cup pursuits alike.
(Quote sourced from Espn Cricinfo)
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