Sat Nov 09 16:43:53 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka Names Squads for New Zealand Series, Asalanka Retains Captaincy

**Hyderabad, November 6:** Sri Lanka Cricket has announced their squads for the upcoming ODI and T20 series against New Zealand. Charith Asalanka, who led the team to victory against India in the recent ODI series, will continue as captain for both formats, much to the surprise of many who expected Dasun Shanaka to regain the captaincy.

The selectors have also included left-handed batsman Kusal Perera in the ODI squad, marking his return to the national side. However, pace bowler Dushmanth Chameera will miss the series due to injury.

The tour begins with a two-match T20 series, with the first match scheduled for November 9th at the Dambulla Stadium. The second T20 match will take place on the 10th at the same venue. The three-match ODI series commences on November 13th, with the remaining two ODIs taking place on the 17th and 19th.

Asalanka, who took over the captaincy after the T20 World Cup, has impressed with his leadership skills, leading the team to a comprehensive victory against India in the recent ODI series. The selection committee and coach Sanath Jayasuriya seem to be confident in his abilities, hoping to see him lead the team to another successful series against the Kiwis.

**ODI Squad:** Charith Asalanka (captain), Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Niroshan Dickwella, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chaminda Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, and Maheesh Thikshana.

**T20 Squad:** Charith Asalanka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Theekshana, Wellalage, Vandersay, Chaminda Wickramasinghe, Nuwan Thushara, Pathum Nissanka, Binura Fernando, and Asitha Fernando.

The series promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams hoping to showcase their talent and secure victory.

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