Sri Lanka have announced a largely unchanged squad for the upcoming two-match ODI series against Australia at home, making just one alteration from the team that toured New Zealand in January. Seam-bowling all-rounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe has been left out as the squad size has been reduced from 17 to 16.
While the series holds no major significance for Sri Lanka, having missed out on qualification for the ICC Champions Trophy, it is crucial for Australia, who will head straight to Pakistan for the marquee tournament after these games.
The Sri Lankan squad looks well-balanced, particularly considering the conditions at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The batting lineup has plenty of depth, with captain Charith Asalanka anchoring the middle order. Although Pathum Nissanka’s recent form remains a concern, the squad includes Nishan Madushka, Nuwanidu Fernando, Avishka Fernando, and Kusal Mendis, who recently scored 85* and 50 in the second Test against Australia.
Australia Sets Record for Highest Runs in Asia, Sri Lanka Under Pressure.
Sri Lanka’s bowling attack boasts a variety of spin options, with Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, and Jeffrey Vandersay leading the charge. The pace attack includes Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Eshan Malinga, and Mohamed Shiraz, though how many of them will feature in the playing XI remains uncertain.
Sri Lanka Squad for ODIs Against Australia
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.
