Dilshan to bat down the order?

It is said that T.M. Dilshan who was not in the squad for England series will be expected to be part of the limited over leg of Australia series. In England, Danushka Gunatilake played Dilshan’s role as the opening batsman, fifth bowler and the backward point fielder. Danushka Gunatilaka played well there to retain his place for the upcoming Australia series as well. But with Dilshan coming in to the side means selectors have decisions to be made. In England, Danushka scored 142 runs with an average of 28.40 and captured 4 wickets with his off spin. Under these circumstances, it is questionable that where Dilshan bats in the playing XI. Since Sri Lanka team is looking to build up a formidable line up for 2019 cricket world cup in England, giving more opportunities for young players like Danushka Gunatilake and Kusal Janith at the top of the order is a worthy investment. Dilshan will not be in Sri Lanka team for 2019 cricket world cup and therefore, the best possible option is Dilshan batting down the order.

It was clearly seen that Sri Lanka needed a more powerful striker to bat at number 6 in England. Even Upul Tharanga scored some runs there; he struggled to clear the boundaries at the end. I think number 6 in one day cricket has become very vital position and team need good strikers who can score runs quickly. Therefore, I think naturally aggressive batsman like Dilshan is very well suited for that position. It will bring more solidity to middle order with his experience and good for the future of the team as well.