Sri Lanka have finalised their squad for the upcoming ODI tri-series in Pakistan, making the decisive call to leave out former captain Charith Asalanka. The 50-over competition brings together hosts Pakistan, Sri Lanka and England for an extensive contest later this month. Asalanka, who has featured in 88 ODIs holding a career batting average of 40.55, paid the price for an extended drop in run production during recent international outings.
Disappointing Numbers in England Cost Asalanka His Spot
The selection committee opted to omit Asalanka following his troublesome outing across the English tour. Throughout the three-match bilateral series against England, the middle-order batsman struggled for fluency, recording meager scores of 1, 11 and 7. His removal from the ODI group follows an earlier exclusion from the three-match T20I roster slated against Pakistan. The development represents a notable downturn in his national standing, particularly after he served as vice-captain during the English assignment and handled leadership duties in the T20 matches when regular captain Kusal Mendis sustained a leg injury.
Recalls for Avishka Fernando and Sahan Arachchige
To fill the vacancies created by Asalanka's departure and Wanindu Hasaranga's physical setback, the management has reintroduced Avishka Fernando and all-rounder Sahan Arachchige. Hasaranga remains sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained while competing in England, which ruled him out of touring contention entirely. Meanwhile, Fernando forced his way back into national colours through outstanding performances on the domestic circuit. Representing his side in the Major Clubs Limited Over Tournament, the top-order batsman accumulated 447 runs across 7 innings at a commanding average of 63.85, providing the selectors with undeniable form.
Core Group Retained Despite Series Defeat
Beyond the enforced injury change and the tactical batting switch, the rest of the touring party mirrors the lineup that featured in the recent bilateral rubber against England. Sri Lanka endured a 2-1 series loss on English soil, but team officials have largely backed the existing unit to deliver improved results on subcontinent tracks against dual overseas opposition.
Rawalpindi and Lahore to Stage Tri-Nation Action From October 18
The tri-series begins on October 18, with the opening fixture pitting Pakistan against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi. The initial round of games across the three sides will take place at Rawalpindi before the competition moves over to Lahore for the second phase of group encounters. The summit clash to decide the tournament champion is scheduled for October 31.
Sri Lanka's 16-Man Roster for the ODI Tri-Series
Kusal Mendis has been entrusted with team leadership for the campaign. The full 16-player touring party includes Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kamil Mishara, Pavan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Sachindu Colombage, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, and Eshan Malinga.
