Selectors to adopt three-tier approach

by Ranjan Anandappa

Chairman Selection Committee Kapila Wijegunawardene is banking on a three- tier policy for future International matches.

He said due to time constraints, members of the selection committee have not put out a formal document outlining the selection policies the committee plans to adopt. However, the committee will look at a three- tier approach: short, medium and long term policies to effectively counter competition in cricket. “ The short term requirements will be to fill vacancies that arise in the team and address any weaknesses. The medium term requirements will revolve around the English tour and the T20 World Cup where the committee will have to take challenges that are likely to arise with time. “ The Lankans have a busy schedule this year beginning with the Pakistan ‘A’ team this month. This will be followed by the Pakistan Test team’s tour of the Island followed by an Indian and West Indian tour in August and October. Sri Lanka is also scheduled to tour New Zealand in December this year and a tour of England in May 2016..

He said there is a need for a defined nurturing policy revolving around the World Cup . A process in which specific needs that are likely to arise in a four year cycle are identified well in advance, and clear cut plan put in place.

Kapila Wijegunawaedene was involved in the administration of SLC sometime back and has played in two Test matches against England at Lord’s and against Pakistan in Pakistan from 1988 to 1992 . He has also represented the country in 26 One Day International matches. The lanky right arm former Thomian paceman is one of the few players who has not played a Test match in home soil.

The formation of a strong back-up or’A’ team squad is also an important factor for the development of the game. Frequent ‘A’ team tours and the selection of players is a vital factor in forming the national team.

In the recent past, we have seen players of the calibre of Kusal Janith Perera, Kithruwan Vithanage, Dimuth Karunaratne and Tharindu Kaushal emerging to the Test squad after successful stints from the ‘A’ teams.

The newly elected selection committee comprise of Kapila Wijegunawardene (Chairman), Brendon Kuruppu, Amal Silva and Hemantha Wickremaratne.