Malinga to lead after Chandimal 'opts out'

Sri Lanka will take to the field on Thursday under the leadership of fast bowler Lasith Malinga, captaining the side for only his second match, after Dinesh Chandimal pulled out of the game.

Sri Lanka will take to the field on Thursday under the leadership of fast bowler Lasith Malinga, captaining the side for only his second match, after Dinesh Chandimal pulled out of the game.

Chandimal missed the side's previous game against New Zealand due to suspension for slow over rates, and he himself chose not to play in the semi-final against the West Indies in Dhaka, according to SLC's twitter.

They said he had 'opted' out of playing in the match, presumably due to recent poor form, and also to possibly keep the momentum going after Malinga led the side to a thrilling win against the Black Caps, defending 119.

The match is a repeat of the 2012 final, which the West Indies won in Sri Lanka. It could also be Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene's final T20 games, as they will retire when their tournament ends.

Latest