In a strategic squad announcement from Colombo, Sri Lanka gears up for three home ODIs against England, naming Charith Asalanka as captain. Fresh from T20I captaincy changes for the 2026 World Cup cycle, Asalanka now leads the 50-over charge with a 17-member unit blending veterans and prospects. The series opener is set for January 22 at R. Premadasa Stadium.
Dhananjaya de Silva and Dushmantha Chameera make eagerly awaited returns, fortifying the core alongside 14 survivors from the Pakistan tour. Batting features the reliable Pathum Nissanka, wicketkeeper-batsman Kusal Mendis, aggressive Kamil Mishara, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and all-rounder Kamindu Mendis, with Zenith Liyanage for reinforcement.
Pace attack spearheaded by Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, and Ishan Maling pairs seamlessly with spin stalwarts Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Dunith Wellalage— a lineup primed for dominance on turning tracks.
Full itinerary: ODIs on January 22, 24, 27 in Colombo; T20Is January 30, February 1, 3 at Pallekele. ODI history is razor-close, England leading 38-37 after 79 games. Sri Lanka’s recent woes aside, home crowds and spin-friendly pitches could fuel an upset.
This series is more than matches—it’s a platform for Asalanka to stamp authority, de Silva to reclaim form, and the team to rediscover ODI mojo. Expect drama, skill, and possibly a shift in bilateral supremacy.