ICC Champions Trophy 2017: Sri Lanka's Probable Playing XI

Middle-order

The onus will be on Dinesh Chandimal to rise to the occasion

Kusal Mendis

Occupying the vital number three slot, Mendis holds the key to the team’s batting fortunes. Not the one to rely enormously on foot work, his swift hand-eye coordination and uninhibited approach can place the opposition under immense pressure. Seeing as the pitches are likely to suit his style of batting, it is imperative for the right-hander to get himself in before attempting extravagant strokes.

Dinesh Chandimal

Capable of taking the attack to even world-class bowlers, Chandimal is the lynchpin of Sri Lanka’s batting lineup. In the absence of Mathews, his role within the group assumes extra importance. Considering the frailties in the middle-order and its vulnerability to alarming collapses, the 27-year-old needs to be at his very best in order to help his side tackle a threatening bowling attack.

Kusal Perera

With a slot in the middle-order opening up, the team management have to choose between the game-changing Kusal Janith Perera and the slightly more experienced Chamara Kapugedara. The stylish left-hander is likely to get the nod from a counter-attacking perspective.