Sri Lanka drop Asalanka as tri‑series squad takes shape

Sri Lanka have omitted former captain Charith Asalanka from the ODI tri‑series in Pakistan, where England also feature. Asalanka, averaging 40.55 in 88 ODIs, was dropped after scores of 1, 11 and 7 during the England tour. Avishka Fernando and Sahan Arachchige return to replace Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga, who suffered a hamstring injury.

Fernando’s recall follows superb domestic form, highlighted by 447 runs in seven innings at 63.85 in the Major Clubs Limited Over Tournament. The squad also includes Pathum Nissanka and Dushmantha Chameera, both managing fitness concerns. Nissanka will travel only if medically cleared, while Chameera’s participation hinges on fitness approval.

Asalanka’s exclusion mirrors his recent omission from the T20I squad, despite serving as vice‑captain in England and briefly leading the side. The tri‑series begins October 18 in Rawalpindi, with matches in Lahore before the final on October 31.