Sri Lanka Announces 17-Member Squad for ODI Series Against England

Colombo: Sri Lanka has unveiled a 17-member squad for the upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series against England, which is set to start on January 22nd at the RPICS Stadium in Colombo. Charith Asalanka will continue to serve as captain, as the team looks to retain a familiar core from their previous ODI outings.

According to International Cricket Council, the squad features 14 players who participated in their last ODI series against Pakistan, reflecting the team's strategy to maintain continuity despite a 3-0 series loss. The squad includes notable additions such as Dhananjaya de Silva, Dunith Wellalage, and Milan Rathnayake, aiming to enhance the team’s experience and capabilities.

The batting lineup is poised with players like Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, and Sadeera Samarawickrama, with support from middle-order batsmen Kamindu Mendis and Janith Liyanage. The bowling attack comprises a mix of pace and spin, with the pace department led by Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, and Eshan Malinga. The spin options feature Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Jeffrey Vandersay, along with Wellalage's left-arm spin.

With the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup scheduled for 2027, Sri Lanka aims to perform strongly on home ground. The ODI series will be followed by a five-match T20I series, serving as preparation for the impending ICC Men's T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. The ODI series schedule is as follows: the first match on January 22, the second on January 24, and the third on January 26, all to be held in Colombo.