Sri Lanka has unveiled their 16-member squad for the much-anticipated three-match ODI series against India. Charith Asalanka will continue to lead the team in the 50-over format, marking his sustained position as captain following recent changes. This decision follows a tumultuous period for Sri Lankan cricket after their World Cup 2023 exit, which led to the removal of Kusal Mendis from the captaincy.
Asalanka, who has recently taken over the mantle in T20 internationals from Wanindu Hasaranga, will now shoulder the responsibility of captaining the team in both white-ball formats. This decision marks a significant shift, showcasing the selectors’ faith in Asalanka’s leadership abilities to navigate the team through this transitional phase.
In the wake of Sri Lanka’s disappointing 1-2 series loss to Bangladesh in March earlier this year, Kusal Mendis, who had been briefly appointed as ODI captain, finds himself out of the leadership role. This alteration aims to bring a new strategic direction under Asalanka, a move that many ardent supporters and analysts have advocated for, considering his recent performances and tactical acumen.
The squad has seen some fresh faces as well as familiar ones. Opening batter Nishan Madushanka has been rewarded with his maiden ODI call-up owing to his impressive performance in Test matches. Since debuting for Sri Lanka in red-ball cricket in April 2023, Madushanka has been averaging an impressive 42 in eight matches. The team management is hopeful that the 24-year-old will translate his form into the 50-over format and contribute significantly to the team’s efforts.
Furthermore, the squad sees the return of veteran off-spinner Akila Dananjaya and all-rounder Chamika Karunaratne. Both players bring a wealth of experience and skill to the table, elements that could prove invaluable in a high-stakes series against a formidable Indian team. Conversely, Test captain Dhananjaya de Silva continues to be absent from the ODI squad, a decision that has intrigued many cricket followers.
Janith Liyanage, who cemented his spot with a century against Bangladesh in the third ODI, maintains his position in the squad. He is viewed as a potential middle-order mainstay who can also contribute with some part-time bowling, offering a versatile option for the team management in what promises to be a closely contested series.
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The series is set to begin on Friday, August 2, with the following matches scheduled for Sunday, August 4, and Wednesday, August 7, which will be the series finale. Each match offers a platform for the Sri Lankan squad to assert their dominance and test their mettle against one of cricket’s powerhouses.
Switching focus to the Indian side, the squad is bolstered by the return of senior players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul. These seasoned campaigners are expected to add significant batting prowess and stability. Alongside them, key players like Kuldeep Yadav and Shreyas Iyer find a place in the squad. Their inclusion is strategic, given their potential to turn games with both bat and ball.
Additionally, the Indian squad witnesses the inclusion of Harshit Rana and Riyan Parag, both of whom are making their ODI debuts. Rana has impressed the selectors with his consistent performances in domestic cricket, while Parag’s recent exploits in T20Is have earned him the selectors’ nod. Both players will be keen to make a mark and solidify their positions in the squad.
As the cricketing world gears up for this electrifying series, it is evident that both teams have much at stake. For Sri Lanka, it represents an opportunity to rebuild and regain confidence under new leadership. For India, it is a chance to reinforce their dominance and test the depth of their squad with an eye on future global tournaments.
With the squads for both teams announced, anticipation builds among fans and cricket pundits alike. The selections hint at a blend of experience and youth, a strategy aimed at crafting well-balanced and competitive units. Both teams will undoubtedly seek to leverage their strengths and iron out weaknesses as they prepare for a grueling series that promises high-intensity and riveting cricket action.
Sri Lanka’s ODI squad for the series against India: 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, and Asitha Fernando.
