Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced its squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England. The selection panel has retained all-rounder Charith Asalanka as captain for the domestic season, while focusing on long-term planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup to be held in Africa next year.
Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, Sri Lanka is set to host England for a limited-overs series including three ODIs and three T20Is. The ODI leg of the tour begins on January 22 in Colombo, with the third and final ODI taking place on January 27. All three matches will be played at R Premadasa Stadium.
Sri Lanka’s ODI team announced for England series, Charith Asalanka retained as captain
On 21 January, Sri Lanka Cricket announced its squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England. Charith Asalanka will remain the captain for the series.
All-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga has been included in the squad, with his fitness and form considered vital to Sri Lanka’s World Cup plans. The selectors have also included spin all-rounder Dunith Velazquez and fast bowler Milan Ratnayake as part of preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera has been rested from the series due to a groin injury to manage his workload ahead of the T20 World Cup. The series will also give other bowlers a chance to gain exposure against England, with young fast bowler Pawan Ratnayake included in the 17-man squad.
Dhananjay de Silva returns to Sri Lanka’s ODI squad after 2023 World Cup
Sri Lanka has retained Sadira Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis and Kamil Mishra in the ODI team for the England series. Pathum Nissanka and Mishara will open the batting, while Kusal Mendis will remain at number three.
All-rounder Dhananjay de Silva has returned to the ODI squad after the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. The selectors want to give him more opportunities in this series as part of the preparation for the T20 World Cup. His experience strengthens both batting and spin options.
The selectors are also expecting good pitches during the series to help the players gain experience ahead of the World Cup. Jeffrey Vandersay and Mahesh Theekshana will handle the responsibility of spin bowling.
The 17-member fast bowling unit includes Pramod Madushan, Asitha Fernando, Ishan Malinga and Milan Ratnayake. The team has received final approval for the England ODI series.
Sri Lanka squad for England ODI series:
Charith Asalanka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Sadira Samarawickrama, Pawan Rathnayake, Dhananjay de Silva, Zenith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Velalez, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jeffrey Wandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, Ishan Malinga
The Sri Lankan selectors are looking at the pitches to play on during the ODI series so that the players can get maximum experience ahead of the World Cup. The national selection panel is expected to announce the T20 World Cup squad next week and the selected team will also play against England.
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