Pic - SNNI Melbourne

Despite concerns over the reported suspicious illegal bowling action, Trinity College spinner Rushan Jaleel is likely to make Sri Lanka Under-19’s playing XI for their inaugural match of the ICC Youth World Cup in Christchurch today.

The Sri Lankan team management said that despite the report of the suspicious illegal bowling action, Jaleel is likely to make Sri Lanka Under-19’s playing XI when they take on Zimbabwe today.

"Jaleel will make it to the playing XI but what we are most worried about now is the weather. It has been raining all day and it is very cold here now," M. Devaraj, the team manager told ‘Sunday Island’ in a telephone interview from Christchurch yesterday.

"Except weather, every thing is fine. The boys are doing well and are looking forward to their first encounter. Our only worry is the weather. Rain has been forecast for tomorrow (today)," said Devaraj.

Sri Lanka Under-19 is likely to go with a packed pace department for today’s game.

Charith Jayampathi, Kasun Madusanka and Danushka Gunathilaka will join Chathura Peiris in the pace attack while Lahiru Jayaratne will be included as an additional paceman after the inspection of the pitch.

Jaleel and Maduka Liyanapathiranage are in the final 13 for today’s game while Saranga Rajaguru is an unlikely candidate.

"It was decided at the team meeting today to pick the final XI after a pitch inspection. It is likely to be in favour of a strong pace attack," Devaraj said.

Sri Lanka will meet Canada tomorrow before encountering the hosts New Zealand in the final group match on Wednesday.