ICC Champions Trophy: The five Sri Lankan players to watch out for
The Sri Lankan team is placed with Australia, hosts England and New Zealand in Group A and will look at consolidated efforts from its top players to answer tough questions.
Here are the top-5 players in the side who will be looked upon by fans to deliver in the Champions Trophy in England.
Tillakaratne Dilshan: Last time he played in the Champions Trophy, Dilshan smashed 106 runs and was the third-highest scorer for his side. While age may have bogged this south-paw down, experience continues to make him an unpredictable talent.
Dilshan has a fluent style of play and batting at the top, can erect a solid foundation in quick time. His shots and the manner in which he can execute them can demoralize bowlers as much as fielders. The added ability to roll his arms gives an extra option although spin from a part-timer in English conditions is unlikely.
Lasith Malinga: Considered one of the most dangerous pacers of the current generation, Malinga will surely be Sri Lanka's main weapon in the tournament.
The 29-year old claimed four wickets in the previous edition of the Champions Trophy - the joint-highest in this team. He is one bowler who has improved with age and has become extremely accurate. Expect him to be asked to bowl repeatedly towards the end of an innings.
Thisara Perera: Having an all-rounder is a blessing for any team. Having an attacking all-rounder is absolute bliss. It is this bliss that Perera brings to his side each time he gets a chance to play.
With 75 wickets from 56 matches, the 24-year-old can trouble batsmen at any stage of the match. While his batting statistics may not be as impressive, Perera is known more as a finisher and has a best ODI score of 69* which he will hope to better.
Sachithra Senanayake: Relatively new to the scene, Senanayake has shown that he is hardly an amateur when it comes to spin bowling.
While many would not back spinners in this tournament, Senanayake has already backed himself on several occasions and justified why he deserves to be where he currently is - with the national team.
Rangana Herath: Foreign teams have had proven difficulties in dealing with Herath. It is a fact that Sri Lanka would be willing to gamble with as the bowler looks to make a mark in Champions Trophy.
Herath is 35 and will look highlight his career - 30 wickets from 40 ODIs at an economy of 4.20 - with important contributions in England.