Oshada Fernando returns to SL's Test squad after 18 months
Top-order batter Oshada Fernando has made a comeback to Sri Lanka's Test team after an 18-month hiatus. His return has led to the exclusion of opening batsman Nishan Madushka from the 16-member squad, set to face New Zealand in a two-Test series this month. Fast-bowling all-rounder Nisala Tharaka and seamer Kasun Rajitha have also been dropped from the team that recently toured England.
Fernando's impressive performance
Fernando's return to the Test squad was prompted by his outstanding performance with Sri Lanka A in South Africa. The 32-year-old cricketer, who has played 21 Tests, scored 122 and 80 in an unofficial Test in Kimberley. He overall owns 1,091 Test runs at 33.06. This led to him being named Player of the Match and caught the attention of selectors, who have now included him in the Test squad for the first time since March 2023.
Madushka's disappointing England tour
Madushka's exclusion from the squad comes after a disappointing tour of England, where he scored just 24 runs across four innings in the first two Tests. He was replaced by Pathum Nissanka, who scored a match-winning century in the final Test. This performance has left no natural spot for Madushka, a 25-year-old wicketkeeper, in the playing XI.
Tharaka and Rajitha left out of overstocked seam contingent
Tharaka and Rajitha, who did not play a game in England, have also been left out of the squad. The decision was made due to an overstocked seam contingent with Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, and Milan Rathnayake already impressing selectors. Despite his recall, Fernando might find it challenging to secure a spot in the batting order with several players likely retaining their places.
Upcoming Test series against New Zealand
The upcoming two-Test series against New Zealand is set to begin on September 18 in Galle. The series is part of the World Test Championship calendar, which will conclude at Lord's Cricket Ground in 2025. Sri Lanka aims to leverage their home conditions and gain confidence from their recent ODI series victory over India in Colombo.
