Sri Lanka opener Pathum Nissanka has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI tri-series against Pakistan and England because of a hamstring injury, dealing a significant blow to the visitors ahead of the tournament.
The right-handed batter sustained an injury to his left thigh during Sri Lanka's recent tour of England, which also forced him to miss the three-match T20 International (T20I) series against Pakistan earlier this month.
Nissanka had been expected to recover in time for the One Day International (ODI) tri-series, but his rehabilitation has not progressed sufficiently for a return to international cricket.
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed on Thursday that the opener had not received medical clearance to resume competitive action. The selectors have named Lahiru Udara as his replacement in the 16-member Sri Lanka squad.
Udara is yet to make his ODI debut but has represented Sri Lanka in five Test matches and seven T20 Internationals, including the recently concluded T20I series against Pakistan.
The batter has an established record in List A cricket, scoring 3,017 runs in 102 matches at an average of 32.09. His tally includes three centuries and 21 half-centuries.
The ODI tri-series will begin on October 18, with Sri Lanka facing hosts Pakistan in the opening match at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. England are the third team competing in the tournament.
Sri Lanka will be led by Kusal Mendis, who will also take the wicketkeeping duties, as they prepare for the 50-over competition without one of their key opening batters.
Sri Lanka squad: Kusal Mendis (captain, wicketkeeper), Lahiru Udara, Avishka Fernando, Kamil Mishara, Pavan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Sachindu Colombage, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka and Eshan Malinga.
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