Although no reason was given for Velázquez’s exclusion, it is likely that his spin-bowling attributes would have been less useful in New Zealand’s more seam-friendly conditions. Velez is currently participating in the Lanka T10 tournament for Jaffna Titans.
Wickremesinghe will complement a diverse seam attack consisting of Mathisha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando and Binura Fernando. Spinners Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay are out of the team.
The first two T20 matches will be played in Mount Maunganui on 28 and 30 December, before the final match will be played in Nelson on 2 January.
Sri Lanka team for T20 series in New Zealand
Charith Asalanka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahish Theekshana, Jeffrey Wandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Mathisha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando.
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