The Sri Lankan cricket board has announced its 16-member squad for the upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against India, with Charith Asalanka set to lead the team as the new captain for the limited-overs format.
This decision marks a significant step for Asalanka, who has been a consistent performer for Sri Lanka and now takes on the leadership role to guide his team in a crucial series.
The three-match ODI series is scheduled to begin on August 2 in Colombo, with Sri Lanka eager to leverage their home advantage to secure a series win against the formidable Indian side.
Asalanka’s leadership will be pivotal as the team looks to overcome challenges and put up a strong performance on their home turf.
A notable inclusion in the squad is 24-year-old Nishan Madushka, a rising star who has already made a mark in Test cricket with an impressive double century. His selection for the ODI format reflects the team management’s confidence in his ability to adapt and excel in shorter formats.
Madushka’s aggressive batting style and knack for building innings will be vital for Sri Lanka as they aim to set competitive totals against India.
The team, however, faces setbacks with the absence of key bowlers Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara, who are sidelined due to injuries sustained during the T20I series.
Their absence is a significant blow to Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, necessitating other bowlers to step up and fill the void. The experienced Wanindu Hasaranga will be expected to lead the spin attack, alongside Maheesh Theekshana and Akila Dananjaya, while the pace department will rely on Dilshan Madushanka, Matheesha Pathirana, and Asitha Fernando to deliver breakthroughs.
Sri Lanka’s squad is a mix of experienced players and promising talents, including Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, and Chamika Karunaratne.
Each of these players brings unique skills to the team, contributing to a well-rounded lineup capable of competing against a strong Indian team.
As the series approaches, all eyes will be on Charith Asalanka’s leadership and how he manages the team dynamics to extract the best performances from his players.
With a blend of youth and experience, Sri Lanka aims to challenge India and build momentum ahead of upcoming international fixtures.
This series presents an opportunity for Sri Lanka to establish themselves as a competitive force in ODI cricket, and a strong showing against India could serve as a significant confidence booster for the team.
Sri Lanka ODI Squad: Charith Asalanka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Nishan Madushka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Akila Dananjaya, Dilshan Madushanka, Matheesha Pathirana, Asitha Fernando.