Sri Lanka have announced their squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, with several key players making their way into the squad. In a massive development, young fast bowler Eshan Malinga has been handed his maiden international call-up, marking a major milestone in his career. Additionally, pacer Lahiru Kumara, who has been out of the squad for a while, has been recalled.
Sadeera Samarawickrama has been dropped, making way for Nuwanidu Fernando. Dilshan Madushanka has also been left out of the squad. Apart from these changes, the squad is same from the one that faced New Zealand in the home series last month.
Allrounder Wanindu Hasaranga also makes his return to the side after missing the series against New Zealand at home due to a hamstring injury. Sri Lanka are set to play three T20Is and as many ODIs against New Zealand. They will kickoff their tour on December 28 with the first T20I at Bay Oval.
Sri Lanka squad: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Nuwanidu Fernando, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Mohamed Shiraz, Lahiru Kumara, Eshan Malinga