Charith Asalanka to lead the team
Sri Lanka announced their 17-member Squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. Charith Asalanka is the captain of the Team as they get ready for three-matches odi series on 5 January, 8 January and 11 January 2025
Sri Lanka recently beat New Zealand 2-0 on their home soil, and now they will look to carry that form into New Zealand conditions. But it is a very difficult task to beat the kiwi in their home conditions.
Changes in the ODI Squad
There are few changes in the ODI Squad. Some new young players like Lahiru Kumara and Eshan Malinga, along with their most important player Wanindu Hasaranga, have been added to the Squad. Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dushan Hemantha and Dilshan Madushanka have been dropped from the squad.
Their batting is heavily dependent on Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis shoulders. Both players’ recent form has been fantastic. Mendis played 16 Innings in 2024 and scored 490 runs at an average of 32, while Pathum Nissanka scored 380 runs in 11 Innings this year. Their bowling attack is dependent on Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage and Lahiru Kumara.
Wanindu Hasaranga returns in ODIs Squad
The team management has got a major boost with the return of Hasaranga, who missed the last ODI series at home against the same opposition due to a hamstring injury. Wanindu Hasaranga is the most important player for the Lankan team. He played crucial cameos, and his bowling skills are exceptionally good. He joined the spin bowling department with Mahesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage and Jeffrey Vandersay. Lahiru Kumara, Chamida Wickramasinghe and Eshan Malinga will handle the pace attack.
Sri Lanka ODIs Squad:
Charith Asalanka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Nishan Madushanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Nuwanidu Fernando, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamidu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Mohamed Shiraz, Lahiru Kumara, Eshan Malinga
Also Read: Tanush Kotian Called Up to Strengthen Team India’s Spin Department
