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🚫 Wanindu Hasaranga Ruled Out for Zimbabwe ODIs
Wanindu Hasaranga will miss Sri Lanka’s two-match ODI series in Zimbabwe. However, he suffered a hamstring injury during the T20I series against Bangladesh in July. Hasaranga was already sidelined for the Bangladesh ODIs. As a result, Wanindu Hasaranga will also sit out the 50-over matches in Zimbabwe.
Hasaranga’s absence is a significant blow for Sri Lanka. Known for his match-winning leg-spin and handy lower-order batting, Wanindu Hasaranga has been a key player in both ODIs and T20Is. Without Wanindu Hasaranga, the team will rely more on other spinners like Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage to control the middle overs.
🔥 Nuwanidu Fernando Returns, Pavan Rathnayake Gets First Call-Up
The squad sees the return of 25-year-old top-order batter Nuwanidu Fernando. He last played an ODI against New Zealand in early 2024. Additionally, uncapped 22-year-old Pavan Rathnayake earns his maiden call-up after strong domestic performances.
Fernando brings experience and stability to the top order, while Rathnayake adds fresh energy and aggressive stroke-play. This move is crucial to balance the batting unit, especially in the absence of Wanindu Hasaranga.
📋 Sri Lanka ODI Squad for Zimbabwe Series
Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Milan Rathnayake, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka
From the Bangladesh series, Avishka Fernando and Eshan Malinga are absent. Meanwhile, the core batting unit remains intact, including Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and Nishan Madushka. This squad blends experience and youth effectively.
💨 Bowling Attack Led by Chameera, Madushanka & Asitha Fernando
The pace trio Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, and Asitha Fernando will lead the bowling department. Also, spinners Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, and Jeffrey Vandersay will provide support. Without Wanindu Hasaranga, the spin trio’s role becomes even more important in controlling Zimbabwe’s batting.
🏏 Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe ODI Series Preview
Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe have faced each other in several ODIs in recent years, with Sri Lanka holding the upper hand. However, Zimbabwe has improved significantly at home, making the series competitive. The two ODIs in Harare on August 29 and 31 will be followed by a three-match T20I series.
Fans are eager to see how Sri Lanka copes without Wanindu Hasaranga and whether newcomers Nuwanidu Fernando and Pavan Rathnayake can make a mark. Meanwhile, analysts expect Sri Lanka to dominate with their experienced top order and balanced bowling attack.
