Colombo: Opting for youth in the post Sangakkara-Jayawradena era, Sri Lankan selectors have drafted in U-19 captain Kusal Mendis into the senior squad for the two-match series against the visiting West Indies.

Mendis comes in as a batsman in addition to his wicket-keeping ability. He has replaced the veteran Upul Tharanga who failed to impress in the recent home series against India. Also axed is Jehan Mubarak.