Former Captain Dasun Shanaka Dropped As Sri Lanka Announce Squad For AFG ODIs

Dasun Shanaka (X.com)

Sri Lanka Cricket has taken a bold decision to drop Dasun Shanaka from the national team squad for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan. The move comes amidst speculation and discussions regarding the team's composition and strategy following recent performances. 

Sri Lanka kicked off the maiden bilateral series against Afghanistan on a winning note by clinching a thumping 10-wicket victory in the lone Test held last week.

Now, the caravan will shift to the three-game ODI series, which commences on Friday this week. Meanwhile, the visitors announced a full-fledged squad for the important series. However, Afghanistan will miss the services of prominent figure Rashid Khan as the spinner is reeling from a back injury. 

---

ALSO READ

[Watch] Bizarre Interruption As Monitor Lizard Halts Play In SL Vs AFG Test

---

That being said, Sri Lanka also announced its 16-member squad for the white ball series just a day before the first ODI and surprised the fans with some bold omissions.

In a first, Sri Lanka has decided to cut short former captain Dasun Shanaka's leash in the aftermath of prolonged disastrous form. Shanaka recorded a mere one-half century with an abysmal 12.25 average in his previous 21 innings in the 50-over format. 

Shanaka was dropped as the skipper ahead of the Zimbabwe series but was given a final chance to retain his place in the playing XI. However, he failed to grab the opportunities and eventually missed out on the upcoming series against Afghanistan.

Besides Shanaka, attacking batter Nuwanidu Fernando and leg spinner Jeffrey Vandersay have also been dropped for this particular series.

Kusal Mendis will lead the side, and star spinner Wanindu Hasanraga has returned to the national side after a prolonged layoff. Seniors Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, and Akila Dananjaya will also grace the squad as Sri Lanka strengthens its bowling department to tackle Afghanistan power hitters. 

Sri Lanka ODI squad for AFG series

Kusal Mendis (capt.), Charith Asalanka, Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sahan Arachchige, Shevon Daniel, Janith Liyanage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, Akila Dananjaya, Wanindu Hasaranga

---

ALSO READ

[Watch] Angelo Mathews Gets Hit-Wicket Out On A Nothing Ball After Milestone Hundred Vs AFG

---