Sri Lanka vs England: Lahiru Kumara thrown out of first Test squad on disciplinary grounds

Kumara made his Test debut at 19 and already has 12 caps, as well as eight ODI appearances

Kumara has been expelled from the squad (AFP/Getty)

Lahiru Kumara, one of Sri Lankan cricket’s brightest young stars, has been thrown out of the Test squad on disciplinary grounds just hours before the team take on England in the first Test at Galle.

The 21-year-old seamer was the most impressive performer against England in the warm-up matches last week, taking the wickets of Rory Burns, Joe Denly and Oliver Pope within 12 balls without conceding a run on the final day of the match at Colombo Cricket Club.

Kumara made his Test debut at 19 and already has 12 caps, as well as eight ODI appearances, and figures to be part of the core of this team for many years.

However, he will now not feature against England after the Sri Lankan cricket board confirmed he had been expelled from the squad.

“Lahiru Kumara, who was in the 16 member test squad to face England in the three match series, has been found guilty of breaching the code of conduct of the team,” a statement said.

“Accordingly, the team management decided to replace him. Dushmantha Chameera comes in as the replacement, with immediate effect."