BY SANDHYA DISSANYAKE, ATTORNEY-AT-LAW
Questions Raised Over Development Pathway as Experienced Names Return
COLOMBO – Sri Lanka Cricket’s selection policy has once again come under the spotlight following the announcement of the Sri Lanka ‘A’ squad for the upcoming Tri-Nation One-Day Series, with critics questioning whether the team is serving its intended purpose as a platform for emerging talent.
The tournament, which will feature Sri Lanka ‘A’, India ‘A’, and Afghanistan ‘A’, is scheduled to begin on June 9 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium and is widely regarded as a crucial stepping stone for players aspiring to break into the senior national setup.
However, the inclusion of experienced campaigners such as Chamika Karunaratne and Niroshan Dickwella has triggered considerable debate within local cricket circles.
Development Opportunity or Second Chance Platform?
Traditionally, ‘A’ team cricket has been viewed as a bridge between domestic and international cricket, offering promising young players valuable exposure against high-quality opposition.
The latest squad announcement has prompted some observers to question whether that objective is being compromised by the inclusion of senior players who have already enjoyed extensive international careers.
Karunaratne, 30, remains on the fringes of the national white-ball setup and recently received a lower-tier national contract for the 2026–27 season. While his experience and versatility are unquestioned, critics argue that opportunities at ‘A’ team level could instead be used to develop younger all-rounders with long-term international potential.
Similarly, Dickwella’s return has reignited discussions about selection priorities. The wicketkeeper-batter has represented Sri Lanka extensively over the years but has endured a challenging period marked by inconsistent performances and off-field controversies. His selection ahead of younger wicketkeeping prospects has been viewed by some as a conservative approach focused on experience rather than future planning.
Contrast with India ‘A’ Approach
The debate has been amplified by comparisons with the visiting India ‘A’ squad, which is expected to feature some of the country’s brightest young talents.
Among the headline names is teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, while the side will be led by Tilak Varma, underlining India’s continued emphasis on youth development through its ‘A’ team structure.
Many believe the tournament presents a valuable opportunity for Sri Lanka to test the next generation of players against strong opposition in a competitive environment.
Tournament Offers Important Test
Despite the controversy surrounding selections, the Tri-Nation Series promises to be an important event for all three participating teams.
All matches will be played in Dambulla, culminating in the final on June 21. The competition is expected to provide valuable match practice and exposure for players seeking higher honours.
For Sri Lanka, the tournament could also serve as a measure of the effectiveness of its current development strategy.
Selectors Under Pressure
The success or failure of the experienced players selected may ultimately determine how the decision is viewed.
Should Sri Lanka ‘A’ perform strongly and the senior inclusions play key roles, selectors may argue that experience remains an important component of player development and team success.
However, if the established names struggle while younger prospects remain on the sidelines, questions surrounding the long-term vision of Sri Lanka’s selection policy are likely to intensify.
As Sri Lankan cricket continues its search for sustained success on the international stage, the balance between rewarding experience and investing in youth remains one of the sport’s most closely watched debates.
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