Sri Lanka has officially announced its squads for an upcoming six-match white-ball tour against England, which includes three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) and three One Day Internationals (ODIs). Kusal Mendis has been appointed as the captain for both formats, aiming to lead his team to a long-awaited series victory against England.
Joining Mendis in leadership responsibilities is Charith Asalanka, who has been named vice-captain for the tour. The selection committee has also included in-form batsman Pathum Nissanka, who is expected to strengthen the top order. His recent performances have made him a crucial asset for the team as they prepare for this challenging series.
The ODI squad features a blend of experienced players and emerging talents. Alongside Mendis and Nissanka, the lineup includes Kamil Mishara, Kamindu Mendis, and Dasun Shanaka, among others. The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, both of whom are known for their impactful performances in limited-overs cricket. The complete ODI squad is as follows: Kusal Mendis (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Sachindu Colombage, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando, and Dilshan Madushanka.
In the T20I format, Sri Lanka has made a few adjustments to the squad, bringing in Lahiru Udara and Tharindu Rathnayake to enhance their batting and bowling options, respectively. Nuwan Thushara and Binura Fernando have also been included to provide additional pace support. The T20I squad comprises: Kusal Mendis (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Lahiru Udara, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Tharindu Rathnayake, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga, Nuwan Thushara, and Binura Fernando.
This tour is particularly significant for Sri Lanka, as they aim to secure their first series win against England in 12 years. The last time Sri Lanka triumphed in a series against England was back in 2011, making this tour a crucial opportunity for the team to turn their fortunes around. The T20I series will kick off in Southampton on September 15, followed by matches in Cardiff on September 17 and Manchester on September 19. The ODI series will commence in Chester-le-Street on September 22, with subsequent matches in Leeds on September 24 and concluding at The Oval on September 27.
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