Nishan Madushka, a promising opening batter, has been selected for his first ODI series in Sri Lanka's three-match lineup against India. The 24-year-old, who debuted internationally in April 2023 in the Test format, has had an impressive start, averaging 42 from eight matches. Madushka notably joined an elite group of players by converting his first Test century into a double century during a home series against Ireland.
Despite his inclusion, Madushka is expected to serve as a backup opener, with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis likely to open the batting. He is the only new face in the 16-member squad, which will be captained by Charith Asalanka, who was recently promoted to captaincy in T20Is.
The squad has undergone some changes since Sri Lanka's last ODI series in Bangladesh. Pacer Matheesha Pathirana returns after missing the Bangladesh series due to fitness concerns. Meanwhile, Nuwan Thushara and Dushmantha Chameera, who were absent from the India T20Is due to injuries, remain sidelined, and Pramod Madushan has been dropped. Asitha Fernando, who had an impressive season in the Lanka Premier League, is back and expected to lead the new-ball attack alongside Dilshan Madushanka.
Sri Lanka ODI Squad:
- Charith Asalanka (C)
- Kusal Mendis
- Pathum Nissanka
- Avishka Fernando
- Nishan Madushka
- Janith Liyanage
- Kamindu Mendis
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Chamika Karunaratne
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Asitha Fernando
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Dilshan Madushanka
- Akila Dananjaya
- Dunith Wellalage