Sri Lanka Recall Dilshan Madushanka for Bangladesh ODI Series
Sri Lanka have recalled left-arm fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka to their ODI squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh, starting July 2. The speedster, who missed the Australia series in February due to injury, replaces the injured Lahiru Kumara in the 16-member squad.
The selection panel has also included uncapped seamer Milan Rathnayake, though his participation depends on recovering from a side strain sustained during the ongoing Test series. Rathnayake has played five Tests but is yet to make his white-ball international debut.
Key Squad Changes
Wicketkeeper-batter Sadeera Samarawickrama makes a welcome return after being dropped due to poor form. He last played for Sri Lanka in November 2024 and essentially replaces Nuwanidu Fernando in the squad.
Eshan Malinga retains his place following an impressive IPL 2025 campaign with Sunrisers Hyderabad. The young seamer will join Asitha Fernando and Madushanka to form a potent pace trio.
The spin department looks formidable with Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana leading the charge. They’ll be supported by leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay and left-arm spinning all-rounder Dunith Wellalage.
Series Schedule and Expectations
The first two ODIs will be played in Colombo before the action shifts to Pallekele for the third match on July 8. A three-match T20I series follows immediately after, beginning July 10 in Pallekele.
Charith Asalanka will captain the side, with experienced campaigners like Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Kamindu Mendis providing stability. Top-order batters Avishka Fernando and Nishan Madushka will compete for opening spots.
Madushanka’s return couldn’t have come at a better time for Sri Lanka. His ability to swing the new ball and provide breakthroughs in the middle overs adds a crucial dimension to their bowling attack. The left-armer’s experience will be vital against a Bangladesh batting lineup that has shown resilience in recent matches.
Sri Lanka ODI Squad: Charith Asalanka (capt), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Milan Rathnayake, Dilshan Madushanka, Asitha Fernando, Eshan Malinga
