Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announces a 16-man squad for the forthcoming home series against Afghanistan, under the captaincy of Kusal Mendis. Notably absent from the lineup is former skipper Dasun Shanaka.
Leading the batting brigade alongside Mendis is vice-captain Charith Asalanka, supported by established players such as Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, and Sadeera Samarawickrama. Inexperienced names like Shevon Daniel and Janith Liyanage have also earned spots in the squad, adding depth to the team’s batting options.
The squad boasts a spin-heavy lineup, ideal for the subcontinent conditions, with prominent names like Wanindu Hasaranga, Akila Dananjaya, and newcomer Maheesh Theekshana. However, the absence of Test skipper Dhananjaya de Silva marks a notable omission from the spin department.
Dushmanta Chameera spearheads the pace attack, supported by Pramod Madushan and Dilshan Madushanka, while Chamika Karunaratne adds value as the primary pace-bowling all-rounder.
The ODI series is slated to commence on February 9th, with all three matches scheduled at Pallekele. Following the ODI series, the action will shift to Dambulla for the T20Is.
Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan ODI Series Schedule:
- February 9, Friday: Match 1 – Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, 2:30 pm IST
- February 11, Sunday: Match 2 – Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, 2:30 pm IST
- February 14, Wednesday: Match 3 – Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, 2:30 pm IST
Sri Lanka Squad for ODI Series Against Afghanistan:
- Kusal Mendis (c)
- Charith Asalanka (vc)
- Pathum Nissanka
- Avishka Fernando
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Janith Liyanage
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Dushmantha Chameera
- Dilshan Madushanka
- Pramod Madushan
- Sahan Arachchige
- Akila Dananjaya
- Dunith Wellalage
- Chamika Karunaratne
- Shevon Daniel
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