Charith Asalanka dropped as Sri Lanka name squad for ODI tri-series in Pakistan

Sri Lanka have dropped Charith Asalanka for the upcoming ODI tri-series against England and Pakistan and have recalled top-order batter Avishka Fernando. The Lankan Lions have also named bowling allrounder Sahan Arachchige, who comes in place of leg-spinning allrounder Wanindu Hasaranga. Hasaranga experienced lower back pain during Sri Lanka's recent three-match ODI series in England.

Asalanka was also left out of the T20I series versus Pakistan, which precedes the tri-series in Pakistan. Kusal Mendis will captain the team with no deputy announced. Avishka has been rewarded for displaying excellent form in Sri Lanka's premier domestic 50-over competition, the Major Clubs Limited Over Tournament. Fernando finished the tournament as the highest run-scorer, aggregating 447 runs in seven games. He averaged 63.85 and scored at a strike rate of 114.61, including two hundreds and a fifty.

However, Avishka's inclusion could create a selection dilemma when Sri Lanka settle on their preferred playing XI. The team already boasts a strong top order featuring Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara and Kusal Mendis, making it interesting to see how Avishka fits into the lineup.

Sri Lanka are currently ranked No. 7 in the ICC Men's ODI Team Rankings. They recently suffered a 2-1 ODI series defeat to England and still have considerable work to do as they build towards next year's ODI World Cup in southern Africa.

Sri Lanka squad for tri-series vs Pakistan and England

Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (captain, wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Sachindu Colombage, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga.

Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026 Schedule