Sri Lanka has announced a 17-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England, scheduled to begin on January 22 at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.
The series marks an important assignment for the hosts as they look to regain momentum in the 50-over format following a challenging run of results.
Charith Asalanka will continue to captain the side in the white-ball format, with the selectors opting for continuity by backing a largely familiar core.
As many as 14 players from Sri Lanka’s previous ODI series against Pakistan have retained their places, highlighting the team management’s intent to persist with the same group despite the 3-0 series defeat.
The squad includes a few notable reinforcements, with experienced all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva, left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage, and pacer Milan Rathnayake added to strengthen both balance and depth.
Their inclusion is expected to provide greater flexibility across departments.
Sri Lanka’s batting line-up appears well settled, with Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara likely to handle the opening duties.
The middle order features proven performers such as Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama, while Kamindu Mendis and Janith Liyanage add stability and adaptability in the lower middle order.
The bowling attack offers a healthy mix of pace and spin. The fast-bowling unit will be led by Asitha Fernando, alongside Pramod Madushan and young quick Eshan Malinga.
In the spin department, Sri Lanka boasts quality options in Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Jeffrey Vandersay, with Wellalage providing additional left-arm variety.
Following the ODI series, both teams will contest a five-match T20I leg, which comes just ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be held in India and Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka ODI squad vs England: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Pavan Rathnayake, Dhananjaya de Silva, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, Eshan Malinga.
