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Sri Lanka Announce Squad For England ODIs: Charith Asalanka To Continue As Captain

Written by N Krishnamurthy

Sri Lanka have named their 17-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against England, scheduled to commence on Thursday. Charith Asalanka will lead the team, resuming his role in the 50-over format after being removed as captain for the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Sri Lanka have recalled Dhananjaya de Silva and Dushmantha Chameera, both returning after a significant absence from the ODI setup, adding valuable experience to the lineup.

Asalanka had to return home with Asitha Fernando due to illness before the T20I series against Pakistan but has now recovered and is fit to lead the side in the ODIs. Fourteen players from the last ODI series against Pakistan have retained their spots in the squad.

The squad features a strong batting lineup, led by Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, and Sadeera Samarawickrama. The middle order includes Kamindu Mendis and Janith Liyanage.

Selectors have focused on strengthening the bowling attack, offering both spin and fast bowling options. The pace attack will be managed by Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, and Eshan Malinga, while the spin department includes Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, and the left-arm spin of Dunith Wellalage.

The first ODI of the three-match series will take place on January 22 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, with the second and third ODIs scheduled at the same venue on January 24 and 27.

Following the ODIs, Sri Lanka will continue their preparations for the T20 World Cup with a three-match T20I series against England, beginning on January 30 at the Pallekele International Stadium. The second and third T20Is will be held at the same venue on February 1 and 3.

Sri Lanka’s ODI squad: Charith Asalanka (Captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Pavan Rathnayake, Dhananjaya de Silva, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, Eshan Malinga.

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N Krishnamurthy