Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced a 16-man squad for the upcoming home series against Afghanistan, as newly appointed ODI captain Kusal Mendis aims to maintain momentum following the recent 2-0 series victory over Zimbabwe.
Notably, former captain and all-rounder Dasun Shanaka was omitted from the squad.
Similar to the previous ODI series, batter Charith Asalanka will serve as the vice-captain. The batting lineup, besides the skipper and vice-captain, included regular squad members such as Pathum Nissanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and Avishka Fernando.
The squad also featured relatively inexperienced players like Shevon Daniel and Janith Liyange, who have collectively participated in only four ODIs so far.
In line with the typical subcontinent conditions at home, Sri Lanka opted for a spin-heavy squad. Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, and Akila Dananjaya have all been included in the spin department.
Additionally, all-rounder Sahan Arachchige, who bowled a couple of overs in the ODI series against Zimbabwe, will provide further spin options.
However, Test captain and spin-bowling all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva is absent from the squad, with his last appearance dating back to the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.
Leading the pace attack is Dushmanta Chameera, supported by Pramod Madushan and Dilshan Madushanka. All-rounder Chamika Karunaratne were also selected as the primary pace-bowling all-rounder for the side.
Sri Lanka squad
Kusal Mendis (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan, Sahan Arachchige, Akila Dananjaya, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Shevon Daniel.
Series schedule
1st ODI, February 9: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan
Second ODI, February 11: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan
Third ODI, February 14: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan