COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (CMC) – Seasoned campaigner Thilan Samaraweera has been named to captain a Sri Lanka Cricket Board President’s XI against  the touring West Indies on their tour here later this month. The 34-year-old, who has played 60 Tests, will lead a strong 15-man side that also includes mystery Test spinner Ajantha Mendis and wicketkeeper Prasanna Jayawardene, who has played 33 Tests.
Nuwan Pradeep, a 24-year-old fast bowler who is on the verge of Test selection, has also been included after recovering from an abdominal and hamstring injury.
The President’s XI will face West Indies in a three-day match starting next Wednesday at the Sinhalese Sports Club.
West Indies leave the Caribbean today and tomorrow in two groups, for the tour that includes three Tests, five One-Day Internationals and a Twenty20 International.
SQUAD – Thilan Samaraweera (captain), Tharanga Paranavithana, Dimuth Karunaratne, Lahiru Thirimanne, Thilina Kandamby, Ajantha Mendis, Ashan Priyanjana, Prasanna Jayawardena, Malinga Bandara, Shaminda Eranga, Chanaka Welagedera, Thilan Thushara, Nuwan Pradeep, Sachitra Senanayake, Kushal Janith Perera.