Sri Lanka Cricket has reportedly released four key players—Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, and Asitha Fernando—from the ODI squad as part of workload management ahead of the crucial Test series against South Africa in the ICC World Test Championship. The players have returned home to rest and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming tour.
In their place, the selectors have added Nuwanindu Fernando, Lahiru Udara, and Eshan Malinga to the squad, giving the newcomers an opportunity to shine in international cricket.
Sri Lanka has already clinched the ODI series 2-0 against New Zealand, with one match remaining. Captain Charith Asalanka confirmed that the team will use the final game to test their bench strength.