The Sri Lanka Cricket Board has officially named a strong 15-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025, a prestigious platform designed to showcase the next generation of cricketing talent across Asia. The side will be led by the experienced all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, whose leadership and consistency have made him one of Sri Lanka’s brightest young prospects. This tournament is expected to offer crucial exposure for emerging players as they aim to make their mark on the international stage.
A Balanced and Promising Line-Up
The squad features a blend of young power-hitters, composed middle-order batsmen, dynamic all-rounders, and versatile bowlers. Nishan Madushka has been trusted with wicketkeeping duties and will play a key role in anchoring the batting lineup. Lasith Croospulle and Nuwanidu Fernando bring valuable experience at the top of the order, while Sahan Arachchige and Ahan Wickramasinghe strengthen the middle order with their adaptable batting styles.
Captain Dunith Wellalage, known for his left-arm spin and responsible batting, will aim to lead from the front both as a bowler and a tactician. He has previously captained Sri Lanka at youth levels and has featured in senior international matches, making him an ideal choice to guide the next generation.
Key Players to Watch
Among the exciting talents, Ramesh Mendis and Vijayakanth Viyaskanth stand out as crucial components of the spin department. Mendis’ experience and Viyaskanth’s attacking leg-spin are expected to play a pivotal role on turning tracks. The inclusion of Traveen Mathew, Milan Rathnayake, and Pramod Madushan adds depth to the pace attack, giving Sri Lanka multiple options with the new ball.
Sohan de Livera and Isitha Wijesundara add further flexibility to the squad, capable of performing in multiple roles as batters or part-time bowlers. Rising youngster Garuka Sanketh completes the lineup, offering youthful energy and potential to surprise opponents.
Building for the Future
This tournament is not only a competition but also a developmental opportunity for Sri Lanka Cricket. Many of these players have already shown promise in domestic tournaments such as the Major Club League and the Lanka Premier League. The selectors’ decision to invest in a youthful group reflects the long-term vision of building a robust pipeline for the senior national team.
Head Coach Avishka Gunawardene (as reported locally) is expected to focus on improving the players’ temperament, adaptability, and match awareness. Competing against other Asian “A” sides such as India A, Pakistan A, and Bangladesh A will provide invaluable experience and a real test of temperament.
Sri Lanka A Squad for Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025
- Dunith Wellalage (Captain)
- Vishen Halambage
- Nishan Madushka (wk)
- Lasith Croospulle
- Nuwanidu Fernando
- Sahan Arachchige
- Ahan Wickramasinghe
- Sohan de Livera
- Ramesh Mendis
- Traveen Mathew
- Vijayakanth Viyaskanth
- Pramod Madushan
- Milan Rathnayake
- Isitha Wijesundara
- Garuka Sanketh
Expectations and Goals
Sri Lanka’s objective will be to deliver consistent performances and challenge for the title. The focus will also be on player development — testing combinations, identifying future leaders, and enhancing the squad’s depth across formats. With Wellalage’s leadership and a promising pool of multi-skilled cricketers, Sri Lanka A enters the tournament with confidence and ambition.
Cricket enthusiasts in Sri Lanka will be eager to witness how these young talents perform against strong Asian contenders. A successful campaign here could open doors for several players to break into the senior side, continuing Sri Lanka’s proud tradition of nurturing world-class cricketers.
The Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 thus represents more than just another tournament — it is a proving ground for the nation’s future heroes, and Sri Lanka A will be determined to make a bold statement on the continental stage.
