NZ vs SL: Dhananjaya de Silva Reportedly Dropped From Sri Lanka's Squad After Refusing To Bat At No. 7, Lasith Malinga Reacts To The News

According to Ada Derana sources, Sri Lankan cricketer Dhananjaya de Silva has been dropped from the squad for the first of the three One Day Internationals (ODIs) against New Zealand, scheduled to take place on March 25th. The reason for his exclusion is reported to be his refusal to bat at the No. 07 position in the upcoming match.

As a result of his decision, de Silva will not be a part of the team that will take the field for tomorrow’s match. Furthermore, sources have claimed that he is expected to miss the next two matches in the series as well. This news comes as a blow to the Sri Lankan team, who will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing Test series.

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The three-match ODI series is an opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is set to be held in India later this year.

Lasith Malinga Praises Dhananjaya de Silva

Dhananjaya De Silva is such a valuable asset to any international cricket team. He is a proper top order batsman who must play in the top 4 on any condition with any team combination. His bowling adds a lot of value as well. #NZvSL

— Lasith Malinga (@malinga_ninety9) March 24, 2023

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Amidst the reports of Dhananjaya de Silva’s exclusion from the squad, former Sri Lankan pacer Lasith Malinga took to his Twitter account to praise the batter, talking about his worth to the team and how he is a certain top-order batter.

“Dhananjaya De Silva is such a valuable asset to any international cricket team. He is a proper top order batsman who must play in the top 4 on any condition with any team combination. His bowling adds a lot of value as well.“

However, it is important to note that this is an unfolding story and there has been no concrete notice from the Sri Lankan Board in regard to the matter. It will be interesting to see how things unfold with Dhananjaya De Silva without a doubt being a crucial member of the Sri Lankan squad.

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