Lasith Malinga to captain Sri Lanka in three-match T20I series against New Zealand

Angelo Mathews and Thisara Perera are among the high-profile omissions in the 15-man squad

Sri Lanka quick Lasith Malinga will captain his side in a three-match T20I series against New Zealand.

The 35-year-old, who retired from ODI cricket after the Bangladesh series at the end of last month, will lead the 15-man squad which does not include former captain Angelo Mathews nor Thisara Perera.

Suranga Lakmal and Dhananjaya de Silva have also been omitted from the 20-over squad to face Kane Williamson's men, with Malinga and fellow paceman Isuru Udana the only players above the age of 30.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Niroshan Dickwella, who did not feature in Sri Lanka's World Cup squad or the Bangladesh ODI series that followed, has been named vice-captain.

Avishka Fernando, who has impressed since scoring his maiden international century against West Indies in the World Cup, has retained his place in the shortest format.

The three T20Is will all be played in Pallekele, with the first taking place on September 1. 

Sri Lanka T20I squad to face New Zealand

Lasith Malinga (c), Niroshan Dickwella, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Janith Perera, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Mendis, Shehan Jayasuriya, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Akila Dananjaya, Lakshan Sandakan, Isuru Udana, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara, Lahiru Madushanka

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