Fast bowler Eshan Malinga has earned his first call-up to Sri Lanka’s national team for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. Malinga, who impressed in 2024, earned a spot in the 17-man squad for the limited-overs tour. Alongside Malinga, seamer Lahiru Kumara returns, while Dilshan Madushanka, who has struggled since his injury return, drops out.
Malinga’s rise began in 2019 when he won a nationwide fast-bowling contest with a speed of 141kph. He has since consistently impressed with his pace, taking 20 wickets in 12 List A games at an average of 25.15. His strong performances earned him an LPL contract with Jaffna Kings and a spot with Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2025. Malinga has also been a regular in Sri Lanka A teams across formats.
Madushanka’s exclusion comes after a disappointing 2024, where he managed only 14 wickets in 11 ODIs. On the batting front, Sadeera Samarawickrama has been dropped in favor of Nuwanidu Fernando, who provides a more aggressive option. The rest of the squad remains largely unchanged from the one that faced New Zealand at home last month.
Sri Lanka’s tour of New Zealand begins with a three-match T20I series on December 28. The ODI series starts on January 5 in Wellington, followed by matches in Hamilton and Auckland on January 8 and 11, respectively.
Sri Lanka ODI Squad for New Zealand:
Charith Asalanka (capt), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Nuwanidu Fernando, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Eshan Malinga.
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