Kusal Perera is set to make his comeback to the Sri Lankan ODI squad for the series against New Zealand, joined by seamer Mohamed Shiraz. This will be Perera’s first ODI appearance in almost a year, with his selection boosted by a strong performance in a recent T20I against the West Indies, where he scored an impressive 55 not out. For Shiraz, who has a stellar domestic record with 84 wickets at an average of 18.75 in List A cricket, this series is a chance to establish himself at the international level.
Key Players and Squad Overview
Sri Lanka’s T20I squad remains unchanged from their recent 2-1 series win against the West Indies, with Chamindu Wickramasinghe, a promising allrounder, retaining his spot in both the ODI and T20I squads. Experienced batsman Dinesh Chandimal also keeps his place in the T20I lineup, showing that his recent domestic performances have impressed the selectors.
The main batting lineup for Sri Lanka includes consistent names like Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, and captain Charith Asalanka. In T20Is, Bhanuka Rajapaksa is expected to take on the role of the power-hitter in the middle order. The ODI squad, however, includes Janith Liyanage, a more adaptable batter who can anchor innings and contribute with his seam bowling.
Spin and Pace Bowling Units
Sri Lanka’s spin department features regulars Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, along with Jeffrey Vandersay and Dunith Wellalage, both of whom have been named in both squads.
On the pace front, there’s a slight variation between the ODI and T20I squads. Matheesha Pathirana and Nuwan Thushara, known for their slingy bowling actions, along with Binura Fernando, are included only in the T20I squad. In contrast, Dilshan Madushanka and Mohamed Shiraz are selected exclusively for the ODI series. Asitha Fernando is a versatile choice, making it to both squads.
Match Locations and Schedule
The series, starting on November 9, will see Sri Lanka and New Zealand face off in a mix of T20I and ODI matches. Four of the matches—three T20Is and one ODI—will take place in Dambulla, while the remaining two ODIs will be held in Pallekele.
Sri Lanka’s T20I Squad
- Captain: Charith Asalanka
- Players: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Binura Fernando, Asitha Fernando
Sri Lanka’s ODI Squad
- Captain: Charith Asalanka
- Players: Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz
With the combination of experienced players and promising young talents, Sri Lanka’s squads for the New Zealand series appear well-rounded. Fans will be eager to see how these lineups perform in what promises to be an exciting series.