No respite for New Zealand, who recorded an unprecedented Test series win against India last week. Right after the India tour, they have gone back to Sri Lanka, where the Kiwis are set to compete in a two-game T20I and a 3-match ODI series. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has unveiled its squads for the T20I series that will be played at Dambulla on November 9th and 10th, while the ODI series will be held in Dambulla and Pallekele.
Kusal Perera returns in SL vs NZ ODIs
A notable inclusion in the ODI squad is former captain Kusal Perera. His return to the 50-over format is a thing of excitement, as he last appeared in the 2023 World Cup. Despite his absence from ODI cricket, Perera has been actively involved in T20Is, showcasing his explosive batting prowess. His recent performances, particularly against India and the West Indies, have been impressive. In his last T20I, the southpaw made a 36-ball 55*.
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Sri Lanka to have an advantage over NZ?
The series follows Sri Lanka’s commanding performance in the Test format, where they achieved a clean sweep against the Kiwis. Historical statistics present an interesting narrative – while New Zealand holds a comfortable lead in overall ODI encounters (52-41), Sri Lanka dominates on home soil with a remarkable 17-6 record. The T20I format tells a different story, with New Zealand leading both overall (13-7) and in Sri Lanka (4-2).
The squad selection process has seen continuity. The T20I squad remains unchanged from their successful series against West Indies, which they clinched 2-1. Rising talent Chamindu Wickramasinghe has secured his position in both formats, while veteran Dinesh Chandimal retains his T20I spot despite his extended absence from international white-ball cricket since 2022.
Sri Lanka squad vs New Zealand (ODIs)
Charith Asalanka (capt.), Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz
Sri Lanka squad vs New Zealand (T20Is)
Charith Asalanka (capt.), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Binura Fernando, Asitha Fernando
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