Dubai, Oct 16 (TNS): Sri Lanka left-handed batsman Upul Tharanga has said no to playing the third T20I against Pakistan in Lahore, reported Cricbuzz on Monday.
According to the sports website, only three players — including Thisara Perera who recently played Pakistan for World XI — have said yes to playing the match at the Gaddafi Stadium.
Both teams are currently participating in a five-match ODI series and will follow that up with a three-match T20I series.
In his absence, wicketkeeper-batsman Kusal Perera is believed to be the favourite to lead the side, according to Cricbuzz.
Pakistan skipper Sarfraz Ahmed believes Sri Lanka have nothing to worry about if they visit Lahore for the third T20I.
On Saturday, 40 Sri Lankan players signed a letter which was sent to the country’s board requesting a change of venue from Lahore to a neutral one for the third and final T20I.
In a press conference, before the second ODI against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi, Sarfraz was asked for his comments on the development.
“As such there is no issue,” said Sarfraz. “I don’t know what is happening [in the Sri Lanka camp]. Their team should come. The recent World XI tour was successful, so they should not be worried.”
Sarfraz urged the Sri Lankan players to follow Thisara Perera’s example, who played for the World XI in Lahore, and reportedly did not sign the letter sent by the players to the Sri Lankan Cricket.
“Their players did come [with the World XI], Thisara Perera came and played. Their team should visit and I hope they do come,” he said.
Earlier on Saturday, ESPNcricinfo reported that the mood in the Sri Lankan dressing room is that of firm objection against the visit to Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore for the one-off match.
“I don’t think the players will change their stance,” said one cricketer as quoted by ESPNcricinfo who was among the 40 contracted players who signed the letter.
