The Sri Lanka ODI squad for Zimbabwe is ready. Selectors have named a young yet balanced team. Charith Asalanka will lead from the front in Harare. This tour takes place just before the Asia Cup 2025, so it holds significant importance for Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka has built a powerful batting unit. Pathum Nissanka adds stability at the top. Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama strengthen the middle order. Nishan Madushka knows how to keep things steady with the bat.
Nuwanidu Fernando returns after almost a year. He last played an ODI in 2024 against New Zealand. His comeback adds depth. In the meantime, young Pavan Rathnayake has received his first call-up. He made quite an impression in domestic cricket, scoring heavily and earning his spot in the squad. Therefore, fans will be eager to see him in action.
Sri Lanka has also focused on spin. Dunith Wellalage knows how to take charge during the middle overs. In addition, Maheesh Theekshana brings mystery spin with the new ball. Jeffrey Vandersay adds more experience and variation. As a result, the spin unit looks complete.
The pace department looks strong as well. Dushmantha Chameera is at the forefront of the attack, showcasing his impressive speed. Dilshan Madushanka adds swing and accuracy. Moreover, Asitha Fernando offers consistency, while Milan Rathnayake brings all-rounder skills. However, Wanindu Hasaranga misses the series due to a hamstring injury. His absence is a big blow. Even so, the squad still looks competitive.
Full Squad with Roles
| Player Name | Role |
| Charith Asalanka (c) | Captain, Batter |
| Pathum Nissanka | Batter |
| Nishan Madushka | Batter |
| Kusal Mendis | Batter/Wicketkeeper |
| Sadeera Samarawickrama | Batter/Wicketkeeper |
| Nuwanidu Fernando | Batter |
| Kamindu Mendis | All-rounder |
| Janith Liyanage | Batter |
| Pavan Rathnayake | Batter |
| Dunith Wellalage | All-rounder/Spinner |
| Milan Rathnayake | All-rounder/Pacer |
| Maheesh Theekshana | Spinner |
| Jeffrey Vandersay | Spinner |
| Asitha Fernando | Fast Bowler |
| Dushmantha Chameera | Fast Bowler |
| Dilshan Madushanka | Fast Bowler |
Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe series schedule
- 29th August, Friday 2025 – ZIM vs SL, 1st ODI, Harare
- 31st August, Sunday 2025 – ZIM vs SL, 2nd ODI, Harare
- 3rd September, Wednesday 2025 – ZIM vs SL, 1st T20I, Harare
- 6th September, Saturday 2025 – ZIM vs SL, 2nd T20I, Harare
- 7th September, Sunday 2025 – ZIM vs SL, 3rd T20I, Harare
This tour holds great value for Sri Lanka. The players can test their skills before the Asia Cup. Moreover, the management can try out new combinations. The return of Nuwanidu Fernando increases batting strength. Meanwhile, Rathnayake’s debut showcases Sri Lanka’s commitment to nurturing young talent. Therefore, this series is both a challenge and an opportunity.
To sum up, the Sri Lanka ODI squad for Zimbabwe looks well-prepared. The team combines youth, experience, and variety. If Asalanka leads wisely, Sri Lanka can gain momentum before the Asia Cup.
