Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially announced its 15-member squad for the upcoming Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025 to be held in Doha, Qatar from 14 to 23 November. Talented left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Dunith Village has been appointed captain of the Sri Lanka A team, marking another milestone in his rising leadership career.
Organized by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), the tournament will bring together the most promising young cricketers from across Asia, providing a platform for future international stars to showcase their skills.
Dunith Velez will lead a balanced and promising team
Led by Dunith Velazquez, Sri Lanka A will have a balanced mix of emerging talent and experienced players who have represented the national team in recent months. Known for his fast left-arm spin and composed batting, Velez has quickly become one of Sri Lanka’s most consistent all-rounders in limited overs cricket.
The team along with him includes established names like Nishan Madushka, Nuwanidu Fernando and Ramesh MendisAll of whom have made significant contributions to Sri Lanka’s recent domestic and international campaigns.
SLC selectors have stressed the importance of providing young players with competitive exposure, with the Rising Stars Asia Cup being an important stepping stone towards senior team selection.
The Sri Lanka A team is loaded with multi-dimensional players capable of performing in all conditions. Exciting prospects also include 20-year-old all-rounder Vishen Halambage, who is yet to make his international debut but is already attracting attention in domestic cricket for his versatility and power-hitting.
The spin department looks strong, comprising Vijayakanth Vyaskanth and Sahan Arachige, known for their control in the middle overs and wicket-taking ability. Meanwhile, Milan Rathnayake and Ramesh Mendis will provide the balance as dependable all-rounders.
Pramod Madushan, who has previously played for the senior Sri Lankan team, will lead the seam attack, supported by Garuka Sanket and Isitha Wijesundara. The combination of youth and experience in the team reflects Sri Lanka’s continued commitment to building depth in its cricket structure.
Group A challenge: Sri Lanka will face Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Hong Kong
Sri Lanka A have been drawn in Group A of the Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025 along with Afghanistan A, Bangladesh A and Hong Kong. The team will start its campaign against Afghanistan A on November 15, followed by matches against Hong Kong on November 17 and Bangladesh A on November 19.
These matches promise to test the adaptability and temperament of Sri Lanka’s young cricketers against strong regional opponents. The top performing teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
Sri Lanka A for Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025
Dunith Vellaage (captain), Vishen Halambage, Nishan Madushka (wk), Nuwanidu Fernando, Lasith Kruspule, Ramesh Mendis, Kavindu de Livera, Sahan Arachige, Ahan Wickramasinghe, Pramod Madushan, Garuka Sanketh, Isitha Wijesundara, Milan Rathnayake, Vijayakanth Vyaskanth, Trevin Mathew.
Also read: BCCI announces India A squad for Rising Stars Asia Cup; Jitesh Sharma will lead