Sri Lanka Cricket has included Dasun Shanaka and Hasaranga in the 17-member ODI squad for the three-match series against Zimbabwe.
Sri Lanka ODI squad for ZIM series
SLC has announced the 17-member squad for the upcoming ODI series in Zimbabwe’s Sri Lanka tour starting on 03, January 2024.
A preliminary squad was announced by Sri Lanka Cricket on December 30, 2023, where Kusal Mendis was named as the captain and Asalanaka as his deputy.
But, there is no room for all-rounder Angelo Mathews who was recalled to the squad midway through the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in India.
Wanindu Hasaranga who was named as the T20I captain, has returned to the squad after missing the the ICC event in India. His participation will be based on his fitness due to his return from his injury.
Akila Dananjaya returned to the ODI squad who haven’t played in the format since 2021. Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, and Dunith Wellalage are considered as other spin options.
“In the last couple of seasons Akila Dananjaya has been picking up wickets, and we also need a backup plan for the likes of Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga,” selector Ajantha Mendis said.
“With the next ODI World Cup in 2027, we need to find a way to give players on the fringes more game time. In domestic cricket, the opportunity just isn’t there to see him tested like he would be internationally.”
Dilshan Madushanka had an impressive display of his skills in the World Cup campaign who will be leading the pace attack that has also Pramod Madushan, Dushmantha Chameera, and a few all-rounders who bowl at medium pace.
Batting all-rounder Janith Liyanage who made his T20I debut in 2022 found a place in the squad and is expected to make his ODI debut.
With a three-match ODI series set to start on January 06, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe will be playing their first ODI match at R. Premadasa Stadium.
Sri Lanka squad for Zimbabwe ODI series
Kusal Mendis (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sahan Arachchige, Nuwanidu Fernando, Dasun Shanaka, Janith Liyanage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, Jeffrey Vandersay, Akila Dananjaya, Wanindu Hasaranga.
