Sri Lanka Announce ODI Squad for England Series, Charith Asalanka Retained as Captain

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has named its squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England. All-rounder Charith Asalanka will continue as captain for the home season, as the selectors focus on long-term planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa.

The series includes three ODIs and three T20Is, serving as a key preparation before the T20 World Cup 2026. The ODI matches will start on January 22 in Colombo, with the final game scheduled for January 27, all taking place at the R Premadasa Stadium.

Charith Asalanka Retained as Captain

On January 21, SLC confirmed the squad, keeping Charith Asalanka as captain. Fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera has been rested due to a groin injury to manage his workload ahead of the T20 World Cup. The series will also give younger bowlers a chance to gain experience, with Pavan Ratnayake included in the 17-member squad.

Dhananjaya de Silva Returns to ODI Side

The squad retains key players like Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, and Kamil Mishara. Pathum Nissanka and Mishara will open the batting, while Kusal Mendis continues at number three.

All-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva makes a return to the ODI side after the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. The selectors hope to give him more chances in this series to strengthen both the batting and spin bowling options.

Spin and Pace Options

The selectors are hoping for sporting pitches to give players good exposure ahead of the World Cup. Spin duties will be handled by Jeffrey Vandersay and Maheesh Theekshana, while the pace attack includes Pramod Madushan, Asitha Fernando, Eshan Malinga, and Milan Ratnayake.

Sri Lanka ODI Squad for England Series

Charith Asalanka (captain), 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

The national selection panel is expected to announce the T20 World Cup squad next week. The players chosen will also feature in the matches against England, giving them a solid platform to prepare for the upcoming global tournaments.