Samaraweera appointed captain for the practice matches.

Thilan Samaraweera's impressive performance in the recently concluded Pakistan A series failed to earn him a place in the senior side, but that does not mean the selectors have forgotten him completely. The 24-year-old all-rounder has been appointed as the captain to lead Sri Lanka A in the two practice matches against India and New Zealand on July 16th and 18th at NCC Grounds in Colombo.

Upul Chandana, who has been out of the side due to injury for nearly seven months, gets his first chance at the international level after the mishap in South Africa. Another player who gets a break is the promising 20-year-old fast bowler Prabath Nissanka, who has been plagued by injuries since the Under 19 World Cup 18-months ago.

Indika de Saram and T.M. Dilshan, both dropped from the national squad, get another chance to impress the selectors. Chamara Silva, recalled to the national side, is also set to play in both games.

The full teams:

Sri Lanka A which will play New Zealand.

1. Thilan Samaraweeracaptain 2. Upeka Fernando 3. T.M. Dilshan (WK) 4. Michael Vandort 5. Shantha Kalavitigoda 6. Chamara Silva 7. Muthumudalige Pushpakumara 8. Upul Chandana 9. Charith Fernando 10. Kaushalya Weerarathne 11. Omesh Wijesiriwardene

Sri Lanka A which will play India.

1. Thilan Samaraweeracaptain 2. Upeka Fernando 3. T.M. Dilshan (WK) 4. Michael Vandort 5. Indika de Saram 6. Chamara Silva 7. Muthumudalige Pushpakumara 8. Upul Chandana 9. Gayan Wijekoon 10. Dinusha Fernando 11. Prabath Nissanka