Sri Lanka has announced an almost unchanged squad for the two-match ODI series against Australia at home. The only change from the squad that toured New Zealand in January is the exclusion of seam-bowling allrounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe, reducing the squad from 17 to 16 players.
While the series holds no significant value for Sri Lanka, as they failed to qualify for the Champions Trophy, it is crucial for Australia. After these games, Australia will head straight to Pakistan for the eight-team tournament.
Sri Lanka’s squad appears well-balanced, especially considering the conditions at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Their batting lineup has depth, with captain Charith Asalanka playing a key role in the middle order. Pathum Nissanka’s recent form may be a concern, but the squad also includes Nishan Madushka, Nuwanidu Fernando, Avishka Fernando, and Kusal Mendis, who was impressive in the recent Test series against Australia.
Spin will be a major factor, with a variety of options available. Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, and Jeffrey Vandersay form a strong spin attack. The pace unit includes Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Eshan Malinga, and Mohamed Shiraz, though their role in the series remains uncertain.
Sri Lanka’s ODI squad:
Charith Asalanka (capt), Nishan Madushka, Nuwanidu Fernando, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Eshan Malinga, Mohamed Shiraz, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dunith Wellalage.
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