Avishka Fernando Returns as Sri Lanka Shake Up ODI Squad
News Desk
Colombo: Sri Lanka have turned to an in-form domestic performer as they begin reshaping their ODI combination with the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup firmly on the horizon.
Avishka Fernando has earned a recall to Sri Lanka’s 16-member ODI squad for the upcoming tri-series against Pakistan and England, potentially ending a lengthy absence from the 50-over international side. His last ODI appearance came in February 2025.
The recall comes at an important stage for Sri Lanka, who are looking to establish a dependable core ahead of the next World Cup. Fernando’s recent domestic form has strengthened his case, with the opening batter producing two centuries in his last three List A matches, including a career-best 160.
He has also emerged as the leading run-scorer in Sri Lanka’s Major Clubs Limited Over Tournament, accumulating 447 runs at an average of 63.85.
Fernando’s return could give Sri Lanka an additional attacking option at the top of the order. His ability to clear the boundary has long been one of his major strengths, but the selectors now face the challenge of fitting him into a batting line-up that already includes several established options.
Captain and wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara are among those competing for top-order positions. Nissanka has been included in the squad but his participation remains subject to medical clearance after a hamstring injury suffered following Sri Lanka’s limited-overs tour of England in September.
Fernando’s recall also coincides with the omission of Charith Asalanka. The former captain, who had become a regular presence in Sri Lanka’s ODI set-up since his debut in 2021, has been left out after a difficult England tour. He averaged 40.55 at a strike rate of 90.11 across 88 ODIs.
In another change, Sahan Arachchige has been brought into the squad in place of the injured Wanindu Hasaranga. Arachchige returns to the ODI set-up after last playing a 50-over international in January 2024.
The allrounder arrives with encouraging recent white-ball numbers. He scored 240 runs in 10 innings during LPL 2026 at a strike rate of 147.23 and recently helped Sri Lanka secure a bronze medal at the Asian Games, scoring 33 from 37 balls in the third-place playoff against Bangladesh.
His international ODI numbers, however, remain modest, with a strike rate of 66.41 and a highest score of 57 in three innings. His selection therefore represents a calculated attempt by Sri Lanka to inject greater flexibility and recent form into their middle order.
The rest of the squad remains largely unchanged from the team that suffered a 3-0 ODI series defeat in England. Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage and Dasun Shanaka provide additional batting and allround options.
Sri Lanka have also retained a four-man frontline pace attack featuring Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka and Eshan Malinga. Maheesh Theekshana, Sachindu Colombage and Dunith Wellalage form the spin department.
The tri-series will provide Sri Lanka with an important opportunity to test their combinations against two strong opponents before the World Cup cycle moves deeper into its decisive phase.
The tournament begins on October 18, with Sri Lanka facing Pakistan in the opening match in Rawalpindi.
Sri Lanka ODI squad
Kusal Mendis (captain, wicketkeeper), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kamil Mishara, Pavan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Sachindu Colombage, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga.
