Dilshan Madushanka returns as Sri Lanka name squad for ODI series against West Indies
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced a 15-member squad for the three-match ODI series, commencing on October 20 against the West Indies. Left-arm seamer Dilshan Madushanka has returned to the fold after missing out on playing against India due to injury-related problems.
Madushanka, one of the best swing bowlers, was the country's highest wicket-taker in the 2023 World Cup amid a forgettable campaign for the side. The 24-year-old finished with 21 scalps in nine matches with an average of 25 and took a fifer against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Chamindu Wickramasinghe and Nishan Madushka are the uncapped players when it comes to Sri Lanka in ODIs. The two sides will play three 50-over games on October 20, 23, and 26 in Dambulla.
Squad for three ODIs: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Janith Liyange, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesha Theekshana, Jefferey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz.
Sri Lanka bounced back from 0-1 to win three-game T20I series against the West Indies
Meanwhile, the preceding T20I series against the West Indies in Dambulla saw the hosts beat the opposition despite being 0-1 down. The Caribbeans won the opening game by five wickets, chasing down 180 in 19.1 overs.
However, the island nation routed the West Indies in the second game by a massive 73 runs, bowling them out for 89 after making 162-5. The series-deciding third T20I also went the hosts' way as they waltzed their way to a nine-wicket victory while chasing 162 in only 18 overs.
While Rovman Powell captained the West Indies in T20Is, Shai Hope will lead them in the 50-over format. The visitors will face a tough challenge, given Sri Lanka showcased their pedigree against India earlier this year by preparing spinning pitches. Leg-spinner Jefferey Vandersay, who played a vital in the 50-over series win over India, is likely to prove decisive again.