Sri Lanka has finalized its 16-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe, and the biggest talking point is the absence of star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga. The leg-spinning all-rounder, who has been the team’s match-winner across formats in recent years, remains sidelined due to a recurring hamstring injury sustained during the T20I series against Bangladesh in July. His rehabilitation has not progressed quickly enough, and the selectors have opted against rushing him back, ruling him out of both the ODIs and the T20Is that follow. This is a major blow, considering Hasaranga’s ability to influence games with both bat and ball.
In Hasaranga’s absence, the captaincy mantle has been handed to Charith Asalanka, who continues to grow into a leadership role within the side. Asalanka, widely regarded for his composure in high-pressure situations, will lead a squad that mixes established performers with fresh talent. Batting responsibilities will lean on the experienced trio of Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Sadeera Samarawickrama, while Nishan Madushka provides additional depth at the top. The selectors have also recalled Nuwanidu Fernando, a stylish batter returning to the ODI fold after some time away, alongside young talent Pavan Rathnayake, who earns his maiden call-up and represents Sri Lanka’s focus on grooming the next generation.
On the bowling front, the absence of Hasaranga means the spin department will revolve around Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, and Jeffrey Vandersay. All three will have added responsibility, especially in conditions where spin could be the deciding factor. For pace, Sri Lanka will rely on Dushmantha Chameera’s experience, coupled with the promising duo of Dilshan Madushanka and Asitha Fernando, forming a balanced attack that blends raw pace with control. The series also provides a valuable opportunity for bowlers like Wellalage and Vandersay to push for greater roles in the long term.
The ODI series, beginning on August 29 in Harare and followed by the second game on August 31, will serve as a crucial testing ground for Sri Lanka as they build towards bigger assignments like the Asia Cup and the ICC global tournaments ahead. Beyond immediate results, these matches offer a platform for the squad to experiment with new combinations and identify reliable backups for senior players.
Zimbabwe, meanwhile, are expected to be no pushovers at home. The hosts will aim to exploit Sri Lanka’s missing star power and build momentum of their own in the World Cup qualification pathway. For Sri Lanka, the challenge will be to prove that the team’s progress is not solely dependent on Hasaranga, but on a broader pool of players stepping up when needed.
This series marks a pivotal moment for Sri Lanka’s transition phase. While losing a player of Hasaranga’s caliber is a setback, it also forces the squad to develop resilience and uncover hidden depth. For Asalanka and his men, the Zimbabwe ODIs are less about Hasaranga’s absence and more about seizing the opportunity to showcase a wider base of match-winners who can carry Sri Lanka into its next competitive cycle.
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