Shanaka dropped; Karunaratne recalled for Afghanistan ODIs

Afghanistan tour of Sri Lanka 2024

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Shanaka dropped; Karunaratne recalled

Sri Lanka selectors have named a 16-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan.  

Kusal Mendis will continue to lead the side while Charith Asalanka will work as his deputy. Former Sri Lankan skipper Dasun Shanaka has been excluded from the squad while wrist-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay who was also part of the last ODI series against Zimbabwe, will miss the Afghanistan ODIs due to finger injury. 

The seaming all-rounder Chamika Karunaratne will replace Shanaka in the squad while Hasaranga will feature in the playing XI in the place of Vandersay. Pathum Nissanka returns to the side having missed the ODI series against Zimbabwe after been diagnosed with dengue fever. 

Middle order batter Nuwanidu Fernando who was part of Sri Lanka ODI squad against Zimbabwe, has faced the axe.  

Except for the exclusion of Shanaka, Vandersay and Fernando, all other players who were part of Sri Lanka ODI squad against Zimbabwe, have retained their places in the squad that will face Afghanistan in the upcoming ODI series.  

The three-match ODI series will be played from 9th to 14th February at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.  

Sri Lanka ODI Squad 

Kusal Mendis (C), Charith Asalanka (VC), Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sahan Arachchige, Shevon Daniel, Janith Liyanage, Chamika Karunaratne, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Akila Dananjaya, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan