The decision was reached at a special discussion of the Selection committee held yesterday (20), internal sources of the SLC say.

Earlier, selection committee chairman - Sanath Jayasuriya had stated that they did not have a plan to substitute Dhammika Prasad with another fast bowler.

Shaminda Eranga, Nuwan Pradeep, Dushmantha Chameera, Dasun Shanaka, Suranga Lakmal and Angelo Matthews are included in the squad as pacers, apart from Prasad.

Kusal Perera, who faced doping charges, only started training last week after he was suspended for nearly seven months.

Analysts say that Kusal has a better chance of joining the team as a talented batsman and wicket keeper is required for the team if the best is to be gained from Vice captain Dinesh Chandimal who is currently playing as a wicket keeper.