Second-string Indian team coming here is insult to Sri Lankan Cricket: Arjuna Ranatunga

Sri Lanka’s former World Cup winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga believes India sending their second-string team to Sri Lanka for a limited overs series is an insult to their cricket.

India’s main team is currently in England for the five-match Test series and the BCCI decided to send the second-string team to Sri Lanka for three ODIs and as many T20Is.

India has developed a potent bench strength in the recent past and they have named a 20-man squad for the tour of Sri Lanka. Shikhar Dhawan has been named as the captain whereas the former Indian skipper Rahul Dravid has been named as the coach of the team.

A lot of youngsters, who have done well in the domestic circuit and the IPL, have got their opportunities for the Sri Lanka tour. On the other hand, Sri Lankan cricket has taken a downward slope as they haven’t been at their best in the recent past.

Ranatunga blamed Sri Lankan Cricket for accepting India’s tour due to marketing needs.

“This is a second-string Indian team and their coming here is an insult to our cricket. I blame the current administration for agreeing to play with them due to television marketing needs,” Ranatunga told reporters at his residence as reported by news agency PTI.

“India sent their best team to England and sent a weaker side to play here. I blame our board for that,” added the legendary batsman.

Meanwhile, despite India sending their second-string team to Sri Lanka, the visitors will be favorites against the hosts as they have a depleted team. In fact, India had stunned Australia in the Gabba Test match with a second string team as the main players were ruled out due to injuries.

The first ODI between India and Sri Lanka will take place at R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo on July 13.