Hasaranga Out of Zimbabwe ODIs; Nuwanidu Fernando and Pavan Rathnayake Earn Call-ups
Hasaranga Out of Zimbabwe ODIs; Nuwanidu Fernando and Pavan Rathnayake Earn Call-ups
Sri Lanka’s star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out of the upcoming two-match ODI series against Zimbabwe due to a hamstring injury sustained in July. This marks the second consecutive ODI series Hasaranga has missed after being sidelined for the ODIs against Bangladesh.
The 16-member squad, led by Charith Asalanka, sees the return of 25-year-old top-order batter Nuwanidu Fernando, who last represented Sri Lanka in ODIs during the series against New Zealand earlier in 2024. Additionally, uncapped 22-year-old top-order batter Pavan Rathnayake has received his maiden national call-up, earning his spot based on impressive domestic performances.
Squad for the Series
- Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Milan Rathnayake, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka.
Notable omissions from the squad that played against Bangladesh include Avishka Fernando and Eshan Malinga. The bowling attack will be spearheaded by the pace trio of Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, and Asitha Fernando, complemented by the spin options of Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, and Jeffrey Vandersay.
Following the ODI series, Sri Lanka will proceed to play a three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe.