Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced a 17-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand as all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga has marked his return. Notably, Sri Lanka are set to play three T20Is and as many ODIs on their tour to New Zealand beginning from December 28. 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.
Apart from him, the Charith Asalanka-led side has made a total of three changes from the last assignment. Young speedster Eshan Malinga has earned a maiden call-up to the national side. The right-arm pacer has scalped 20 wickets from 12 matches in his List A career so far at an average of 25.15 with one five-wicket haul.
Lahiru Kumara, who last played ODI cricket in March 2024, has also earned a recall. Batter Nuwanidu Fernando, who made his debut against India in January 2023, has also been picked. The 25-year-old has replaced Sadeera Samarawickrama who had a prolonged lean patch across formats.
Batter Kusal Perera and fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka also find themselves out of the squad. Earlier, Sri Lanka also announced the T20I squad for the tour as they made no changes in the team which played the home T20I series vs New Zealand.
Sri Lanka squad for NZ T20Is: Charith Asalanka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamidu Wickramasinghe, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando
Sri Lanka squad for NZ ODIs: Charith Asalanka (capt), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Nuwanidu Fernando, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Mohamed Shiraz, Lahiru Kumara, Eshan Malinga
