Colombo, December 24: Sri Lanka has announced its 17-member ODI squad for the upcoming limited-overs tour of New Zealand, with pacer Ishan Malinga receiving his maiden national call-up following an impressive run in domestic cricket in 2024. The squad also features the return of fast bowlers Lahiru Kumara and Dilshan Madushanka.
In a notable change, batter Sadeera Samarawickrama has been left out, making way for Nuwanidu Fernando.
Ishan Malinga’s Rapid Rise
Malinga, who debuted in domestic cricket in 2022, has quickly climbed the ranks with consistent performances. In 12 List A matches, he has claimed 20 wickets at an average of 25.15. His raw pace, clocking up to 141 km/h, first garnered attention during a national-level fast bowling competition in 2019, where he emerged as a standout performer.
Building on his foundation, Malinga showcased greater control and stability in 2024, earning him a contract with the Jaffna Kings in the Lanka Premier League (LPL). While he featured in only one game during the season, his growing potential secured him a spot in the Sunrisers Hyderabad squad for the IPL 2025. Malinga has also been a regular member of the Sri Lanka A team, excelling across formats.
New Zealand Tour Schedule
The tour begins with a three-match T20I series, starting December 28, 2024, followed by the three-match ODI series. The ODI matches are scheduled as follows:
- 1st ODI: January 5, 2025 – Wellington
- 2nd ODI: January 8, 2025 – Hamilton
- 3rd ODI: January 11, 2025 – Auckland
Sri Lanka’s ODI Squad for New Zealand
- Charith Asalanka (Captain)
- Pathum Nissanka
- Avishka Fernando
- Nishan Madushka
- Kusal Mendis
- Kamindu Mendis
- Zenith Liyanage
- Nuwanidu Fernando
- Dunith Wellalage
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Jeffrey Vandersay
- Chamindu Wickramasinghe
- Asitha Fernando
- Mohammed Shiraz
- Lahiru Kumara
- Ishan Malinga
Coach’s Perspective
Head coach Chris Silverwood expressed optimism about the squad, stating, “Ishan Malinga’s inclusion is a testament to his outstanding performances in domestic and franchise cricket. His raw pace and growing consistency make him a valuable asset, particularly in conditions like New Zealand. The return of Lahiru Kumara and Dilshan Madushanka strengthens our pace attack, while the inclusion of Nuwanidu Fernando adds depth to our batting lineup.”
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.