Dilhara Fernando is likely to be axed from Sri Lanka's team to play Australia in the ICC Cricket World Cup final on Saturday, paying the price for a poor performance in the semi-final win over New Zealand.

Fernando recorded figures of 0-45 from just five overs against the Black Caps, and he was also twice warned for running on the pitch during the 81-run win.

Sri Lanka's chief selector, Asantha de Mel, said the selectors were unhappy with Fernando's form, and fellow seamer Farveez Maharoof was likely to get the nod for the final.

"Most probably it will be Maharoof," De Mel said from the Caribbean.

"We were not satisfied with Dilhara's performance."

Maharoof was considered unlucky not to make the semi-final after taking 4-25 against Ireland in Sri Lanka's final Super Eight match.

De Mel also confirmed that Upul Tharanga would continue to open the batting ahead of former captain Marvan Atapattu.