Sri Lanka Team in Hong Kong Sixes

Sri Lanka Team in Hong Kong Sixes 2024 | Full Squad & Fixtures

Sri Lanka cricket team is preparing for a strong showing at the Hong Kong Sixes 2024, set to be held from November 1-3 at the Mission Road Ground, Mong Kok, Hong Kong. Placed in Pool D with Bangladesh and Oman, Sri Lanka aims to replicate past successes in this unique six-a-side format, which features five-over-per-side matches.

Team Identity & Strategy

Sri Lanka’s identity in cricket has always been built on a mix of flair, aggression, and strategic play. This approach suits the high-paced Hong Kong Super Sixes format, emphasizing big hits, innovative bowling, and sharp fielding.

Team Logo

Sri Lanka in HK Sixes

The Lion in the Sri Lanka team logo represents courage, strength, and national pride, which will be on display throughout the tournament.

Team Anthem

The team anthem, “Sri Lanka Matha,” symbolizes unity and motivation, inspiring players and fans alike.

Team Jersey

Sri Lanka’s traditional blue and yellow jersey will be worn during the tournament, symbolizing the team’s vibrant spirit and cricketing heritage.

Championship Wins

Sri Lanka has enjoyed significant success at the Hong Kong Sixes, winning the tournament once:

  • 2007 Champions: Sri Lanka clinched their maiden title with dominating performances, highlighted by Sanath Jayasuriya’s all-around brilliance and aggressive batting throughout the event​. Although Sri Lanka has frequently reached the later stages of the tournament, they have not finished as runners-up in any edition of the Hong Kong Sixes so far. They have consistently been competitive, showcasing their ability to excel in the shorter format.

Notable Past Individual Performances

Sri Lanka Squad in Hong Kong Sixes
  • Sanath Jayasuriya (2007): Jayasuriya’s aggressive batting and effective bowling were instrumental in Sri Lanka’s championship run.
  • Angelo Mathews (2008): Mathews contributed as an all-rounder, delivering impactful performances with both bat and ball.
  • Thisara Perera (2012): Perera’s six-hitting prowess made him a standout performer in that edition, adding crucial runs to the team’s total in several matches.

Full Squad for Hong Kong Sixes 2024

Player NameRoleStrengths
Lahiru Madushanka (C)All-rounderLeadership, versatile with bat and ball
Dhananjaya LakshanAll-rounderHard-hitting batsman, effective medium-pacer
Lahiru SamarakoonFast BowlerPace bowling, lower-order hitting
Nimesh VimukthiSpinnerAccurate left-arm spin, good wicket-taker
Sadun WeerakkodyWicketkeeper-BatsmanFast scorer, sharp keeping skills
Tharindu RathnayakeBatsmanStrong batting, reliable middle-order performance
Thanuka DabareBatsmanExplosive opener, known for quick starts

Fixtures of Sri Lanka Team

DateTime (IST)OpponentPool
November 18:45 AMOmanPool D
November 14:40 PMBangladeshPool D

The top two teams from each pool will advance to the quarterfinals, followed by semifinals and the final on November 3.

Key Players in the Current Squad

  • Lahiru Madushanka: Leading the side, Madushanka brings a wealth of experience as an all-rounder and captain.
  • Dhananjaya Lakshan: His aggressive batting and pace bowling make him a crucial player for the Sixes format.
  • Sadun Weerakkody: As a wicketkeeper-batsman, Weerakkody provides quick scoring options and reliable wicketkeeping.

Coaching Staff

The coaching staff focuses on short-format strategies, emphasizing big hitting and variations in bowling to adapt to the dynamic Sixes format.

Broadcasting Channels

Fans can watch Sri Lanka’s matches live on Star Sports and through FanCode, which will offer live streaming of all matches, providing extensive coverage for global viewers.

Sri Lanka’s Journey in Hong Kong Sixes

Sri Lanka has had an impressive run in previous editions of the Hong Kong Sixes, often making it to the later stages of the tournament. Known for their aggressive batting and crafty spin bowling, they have been one of the most competitive teams in this format. The 2007 championship win remains a standout achievement, setting a high benchmark for the current squad. The team’s consistent performances over the years have made them a formidable contender, with exciting matchups expected in the 2024 edition.

Strengths and Strategies for 2024

Sri Lanka’s squad is built around all-round strength, with players capable of contributing both with bat and ball:

  • Aggressive Batting: The Sixes format requires quick scoring, and Sri Lanka has selected hard-hitters to accelerate the run rate right from the start.
  • Spin Variations: Spin has always been a strong suit for Sri Lanka, and the squad will rely on bowlers like Nimesh Vimukthi to provide breakthroughs with tight overs.
  • Fielding Brilliance: In such a fast-paced format, quick and sharp fielding can turn games. Sri Lanka’s fielders are expected to be agile and alert, making run-outs and boundary saves crucial elements of their strategy.

Sri Lanka’s Road to the Title

To reclaim their lost glory, Sri Lanka will need to focus on consistent performances throughout the tournament:

  • Winning Early Matches: Getting off to a strong start in the group matches against Oman and Bangladesh will be critical.
  • Utilizing Powerplays: With only five overs per innings, making the most of the powerplay overs will be crucial. Expect aggressive starts from players like Thanuka Dabare and Sadun Weerakkody.
  • Effective Death Bowling: Bowlers like Lahiru Samarakoon and Dhananjaya Lakshan will be responsible for controlling runs in the final overs, using yorkers and slower balls.

How Fans Can Follow Sri Lanka’s Campaign

Sri Lanka’s matches will be widely broadcasted, ensuring fans don’t miss any action:

  • Live Coverage: Matches will be available on Star Sports and through the FanCode app, offering both live TV and online streaming options.
  • Social Media Updates: Follow Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for live score updates, team news, and behind-the-scenes content.
  • Post-Match Highlights: After each match, fans can watch post-match highlights and analyses on YouTube and the FanCode app, featuring key moments and interviews.

Support & Fan Engagement

Sri Lankan fans are known for their passionate support, and the Hong Kong Sixes 2024 will be no exception:

  • Fan Campaigns: SLC and sponsors like Dialog Axiata plan to engage fans with contests, quizzes, and exclusive merchandise giveaways during the tournament.
  • Virtual Engagements: Through social media campaigns, fans can send in messages of support, which will be displayed at the venue, making it a unique way to boost team morale.

FAQs

Has Sri Lanka won the Hong Kong Sixes before?

Yes, Sri Lanka won the Hong Kong Sixes in 2007, showcasing a dominant performance throughout the tournament.

Who is leading the Sri Lanka team in Hong Kong Sixes 2024?

Lahiru Madushanka is the captain of the Sri Lanka team in this edition. He is an experienced all-rounder known for his versatility.

What makes the Hong Kong Sixes format special?

Hong Kong Sixes is a fast-paced format featuring five-over matches with six players per side. It emphasizes aggressive batting, quick wickets, and high scores, making it thrilling for both players and fans.

How can I watch Sri Lanka’s matches live in Hong Kong Sixes 2024?

Matches will be available live on Star Sports and through the FanCode app, offering both TV broadcasts and online streaming.

Who are the key players to watch for Sri Lanka in this tournament?

Some key players to watch are:
Lahiru Madushanka (Captain & All-rounder)
Dhananjaya Lakshan (All-rounder)
Sadun Weerakkody (Wicketkeeper-Batsman)