COLOMBO, Aug 9: Mahela Jayawardene will lead a strong Sri Lankan team to the inaugural Twenty20 World Championship to be held in South Africa, officials said on Thursday.

The 15-man squad, with prolific off-spinner Muttiah Muralitharan confirmed to play after earlier reports suggested that he may be rested from the 12-nation tournament.

Left-handed opener Jehan Mubarak takes over from former captain Marvan Atapattu, whose request to be released from his contract with the national team was granted.

All-rounders Hasantha Fernando, Gayan Wijekoon and Kaushal Lokuarachchi have been recalled, said a SLC spokesman.

Sri Lanka have been drawn with New Zealand and Kenya in group C of the preliminary league, with the top two advancing to the Super Eights round.

Squad: Mahela Jayawardene (captain), Sanath Jayasuriya, Upul Tharanga, Kumar Sangakkara, Tillekeratne Dilshan, Chamara Silva, Chaminda Vaas, Farveez Maharoof, Muttiah Muralitharan, Lasith Malinga, Dilhara Fernando, Hasantha Fernando, Gayan Wijekoon, Kaushal Lokuarachchi, Jehan Mubarak.—AFP