Pathum Nissanka sidelined from Zimbabwe ODIs due to suspected dengue

Pathum Nissanka. (Photo by RANDY BROOKS/AFP via Getty Images)

Sri Lanka’s opener Pathum Nissanka’s has been ruled from the ODI series against Zimbabwe due to a suspected case of dengue. There are concerns that he might miss the subsequent three-match T20I series if diagnosed with dengue, leading to his hospital admission for treatment.

In his absence, Shevon Daniel, who has limited international experience with just one T20I appearance, has been called in as a replacement. Despite being a potential opener, his spot in the playing XI for the first ODI remains uncertain with Avishka Fernando and skipper Kusal Mendis capable of taking on the opening responsibilities.

The 19-year-old’s recent half-century for Sinhalese Sports Club in the Major Clubs Limited Over Tournament showcased promise, although his inclusion primarily banks on his potential and not extensive gameplay. All three ODIs against Zimbabwe, along with the ensuing T20Is, are scheduled to take place at Khettarama. Sri Lanka faces a challenging situation with Nissanka’s absence impacting their batting lineup.

Nissanka’s immaculate record against Zimbabwe teases Sri Lanka’s prospects

The right-handed batter’s absence has dealt a blow to Sri Lanka, given his consistent batting performances. In the previous year, he amassed an impressive 1151 ODI runs at an average of 44.26 and emerged as one of the team’s dependable batters. His stellar record against Zimbabwe – an average of 82.33 in four innings, adds to Sri Lanka’s woes.

The 25-year-old has tallied 1728 runs in 49 ODIs and has maintained an average of 38.40 and scored three centuries. Despite his commendable performance in the 2023 World Cup where he scored 332 runs at 41.50, Sri Lanka had a lacklustre campaign as they managed just two wins out of nine matches. However, their triumph over defending champions England stood out as a significant achievement.

Sri Lanka’s updated Squad:

Kusal Mendis (C), Charith Asalanka, Shevon Daniel, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sahan Arachchige, Nuwanidu Fernando, Dasun Shanaka, Janith Liyanage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, Jeffrey Vandersay, Akila Dananjaya, Wanindu Hasaranga (subject to fitness).