Sri Lanka have suffered a major setback ahead of the upcoming ODI tri-series against Pakistan and England after star opening batter Pathum Nissanka was ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.
The right-handed opener sustained an injury to his left thigh during Sri Lanka’s recent tour of England, which also forced him to miss the three-match T20I series against Pakistan earlier this month.
Although Nissanka was initially expected to recover in time for the ODI tri-series, his rehabilitation has not progressed sufficiently for him to return to international action.
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed on Thursday that Nissanka has not yet received medical clearance to resume competitive cricket, prompting the selectors to name Lahiru Udara as his replacement in the 16-member squad.
Udara has yet to make his One Day International (ODI) debut; however, he has represented Sri Lanka in five Test matches and seven T20 International (T20I) matches, including the recently concluded series against Pakistan.
In List A cricket, he has scored 3,017 runs in 102 matches, boasting an average of 32.09, with three centuries and 21 half-centuries.
The ODI tri-series will commence on October 18, with Sri Lanka taking on hosts Pakistan in the opening match at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Sri Lanka squad for ODI tri-series
Kusal Mendis (captain, wicketkeeper), Lahiru Udara, 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 and Eshan Malinga.