Sri Lanka Excludes World Cup 2023 Skipper in ODI Squad Announcement for Afghanistan Series

Sri Lanka Cricket has revamped its ODI squad for the upcoming series against Afghanistan, dropping World Cup 2023 captain Dasun Shanaka due to poor performance. New faces include Chamika Karunaratne and Shevon Daniel. Kusal Mendis will lead the team. The series comprises three matches scheduled from February 8 to February 14 in Pallekele.

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Sri Lanka Cricket has announced its squad for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan, making significant changes from the team that faced Zimbabwe. Notably, the Lankan Lions have omitted Dasun Shanaka, their captain from the World Cup 2023, due to his underwhelming performance.

Shanaka's absence is conspicuous, considering he led the team in the previous World Cup. However, his recent thigh injury and lackluster performance in ODIs have led to his exclusion from the squad. Kusal Mendis, who briefly replaced Shanaka during the World Cup, continues to lead the team.

The team management's decision seems to be influenced by Shanaka's poor run in ODIs during 2023, where he managed only 352 runs in 26 matches. His struggle with the bat, except for a century against India, led to doubts about his form and effectiveness as a captain.

During the recent series against Zimbabwe, Shanaka's scores of 8 and 7 in the first two ODIs further diminished his chances of retaining his place in the team. Consequently, selectors have opted for a reshuffle, bringing in Chamika Karunaratne and Shevon Daniel to reinforce the squad.

The batting unit, led by Kusal Mendis, features a blend of experience and emerging talent including Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, and Sadeera Samarawickrama. The bowling department is bolstered by Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana in spin, and Dushmantha Chameera in pace.

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The series against Afghanistan comprises three ODIs, scheduled for February 8, February 11, and February 14, all to be played in Pallekele. Sri Lanka aims to bounce back from recent setbacks and make a strong statement against Afghanistan with their revamped squad.

Sri Lanka squad for ODI series against Afghanistan:

Kusal Mendis (capt), Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sahan Arachchige, Shevon Daniel, Janith Liyanage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, Akila Dananjaya, Wanindu Hasarang