Sri Lanka Recalls Samarawickrama, Madushanka for ODI Clash with Bangladesh; Rathnayake Fitness in Doubt

Samarawickrama, Madushanka Return to Sri Lanka's ODI Squad for Bangladesh Series

Sadeera Samarawickrama and Dilshan Madushanka have been named in Sri Lanka's 16-member squad for the upcoming One Day International series against Bangladesh. Both players are making a comeback to the ODI setup, having last played in the series against New Zealand in November 2024.

The right-hander last played for Sri Lanka in November 2024 © Getty

Samarawickrama showcased his form in the Sri Lanka A's 50-over tri-series campaign in Abu Dhabi, which included Ireland A and Afghanistan A. He was the second-highest run-scorer, accumulating 197 runs in 4 innings, including a century and a half-century. Madushanka also participated in that series, claiming 8 wickets in 4 matches, with a best of 4 for 37.

Milan Rathnayake has also been included in the ODI squad for the Bangladesh series. However, his participation is contingent upon clearing a fitness test. Rathnayake featured in the first Test against Bangladesh but was subsequently sidelined from the second match due to a side strain.

Several players who were part of Sri Lanka's previous ODI squad for the series against Australia earlier this year have been omitted. These include Nuwanidu Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, and Mohamed Shiraz.

The ODI series is scheduled to commence on July 2 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, which will also host the second match on July 5. The third and final ODI will be held in Pallekele on July 10, followed by a three-match T20 International series.

Sri Lanka ODI Squad: Charith Asalanka (Captain), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranaga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Milan Rathnayake (subject to fitness), Dilshan Madushanka, Asitha Fernando, Eshan Malinga.