Sri Lanka has named a 16-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against the West Indies, with uncapped fast-bowling allrounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe in line to make his ODI debut. Wickramasinghe, who impressed with the bat during the Lanka Premier League (LPL) in July, replaces Chamika Karunaratne, whose exclusion marks a further fall from favor under the new selection and coaching setup.
The series will be held in Pallekele, with the first ODI scheduled for October 20, followed by matches on October 23 and 26. The changes to Sri Lanka’s squad have sparked attention, particularly the decision to include Wickramasinghe, who has been a rising star following a strong domestic season. Despite his potential, Karunaratne, a regular in Sri Lanka’s recent squads, has not played since the 2023 ODI World Cup and has now been dropped from the side.
Wickramasinghe’s call-up comes on the back of his performances in the LPL, where he showcased his ability as both a bowler and a batter. He was also part of Sri Lanka’s T20I squad against the West Indies earlier this year, though he was sidelined as spin-friendly surfaces prompted the team to opt for Dunith Wellalage in the playing XI.
Another notable change to the squad is the inclusion of legspinner Jeffrey Vandersay, who replaces offspinner Akila Dananjaya. Vandersay, known for his ability to turn the ball sharply, will add depth to Sri Lanka’s spin bowling unit, which will be led by Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga. Wellalage, a promising young allrounder, will also offer spin-bowling options.
In the pace department, Sri Lanka has retained Mohamed Shiraz, who was a late inclusion in the squad against India following the injuries to Matheesha Pathirana and Dilshan Madushanka. While Madushanka makes his return to the ODI squad, Pathirana, who played all three T20Is against the West Indies, has been left out. Asitha Fernando completes the pace trio for the series.
Sri Lanka’s batting unit remains unchanged, with captain Charith Asalanka leading a powerful lineup that includes the likes of Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and promising young talent Nishan Madushka.
The team will be hoping to continue their strong performances in the ODI format, as they prepare to face a formidable West Indies side in the series. Sri Lanka’s blend of experienced batsmen and a potent spin attack, alongside promising young fast-bowling talents, will aim to challenge the visitors in what promises to be a competitive series.
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Sri Lanka’s Squad for ODI Series Against West Indies
Charith Asalanka (captain), Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Madushka, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz
The three-match ODI series will take place in Pallekele, with all matches set to begin at 1:30 PM local time.
