SL vs WI: Pathum Nissanka ruled out of ODI series against West Indies; replacement named

The Sri Lankan cricket team faces a significant setback ahead of the three-match ODI series against the West Indies, as star opener Pathum Nissanka has been ruled out due to a quadriceps strain sustained during the T20I series. With Nissanka unavailable, Nishan Madushka is poised to make his debut in the national team.

In Nissanka's absence, senior players Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka will need to step up and shoulder additional responsibility. Their performances will be crucial as Sri Lanka aims to build on their recent success. The ODI series will take place at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, with matches scheduled for October 20, 23, and 26. While Nissanka will miss the opening game, his availability for the remainder of the series remains uncertain.

Sri Lanka enters this series on a high note, coming off a victorious T20I series against the West Indies and a recent whitewash of India in their last ODI encounter. The team, under the guidance of new head coach Sanath Jayasuriya and captain Charith Asalanka, is keen to maintain this winning momentum and capitalize on their current form.

Conversely, the West Indies team, led by captain Shai Hope, is eager to rebound after missing out on the last ODI World Cup. With the inclusion of emerging talents like Alick Athanaze and Keacy Carty, the Caribbean squad is determined to establish their presence and confidence in the ODI format.

Sri Lanka squad for WI ODI series: Charith Asalanka (c), Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamidu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Mohamed Shiraz.