IND vs SL 3rd ODI: A historic moment for Sri Lanka as the island country have defeated India in the bilateral ODI series after 27 years! Sri Lanka have defeated India by 110 runs in the third ODI of the India Tour Of Sri Lanka 2024 Bilateral series.



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><h2>Jump To:</h2><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#ind-vs-sl-3rd-odi-match-highlight">IND vs SL 3rd ODI Match Highlight</a></li><li class=""><a href="#ind-vs-sl-3rd-odi-awards">IND vs SL 3rd ODI Awards</a></li></ul></nav></div>



Sri Lanka have almost taken a revenge of the T20I series whitewash. They dominated India in all aspects throughout the series and this was kind of exactly the opposite of what India did to them in the T20I series. 



It is not everyday when you defeat number one ODI side and that too by 2-0 in a bilateral series. This series win is going to be a sweet memory of Sri Lankans for a quite long now. Let's take a look at the match highlight of IND vs SL 3rd ODI:



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ind-vs-sl-3rd-odi-match-highlight">IND vs SL 3rd ODI Match Highlight</h2>



Winning three tosses in a row, Sri Lankan skipper <a href="https://www.cricbuzz.com/profiles/10934/asalanka">Charith Asalanka</a> again opted to bat first. The home side didn't lose an early wicket this time and this turned out sweet for them. The two openers batted for the first 19.5 overs and added 89 runs. There wasn't much spin on the surface during that period. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/08/FERNANDO.jpg" alt="IND vs SL 3rd ODI: Historic! Fernando-Mendis-Wellalage Trio Thrived as Sri Lanka defeated India by 110 Runs" class="wp-image-145342"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">IND vs SL 3rd ODI: Fernando and Kushal Mendis (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



after the fall of Pathum Nissanka(45) Kusal Mendis joined and both again weaved an 80+ run partnership. Fernando was caught LBW 4 runs away from the maiden century of the series. Sri Lanka were 183 for 2 down at a stage then the expected collapse of the middle order occurred and the batting side lost 6 wickets for 199 runs. 



A late fight by Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis took the team to 248 in 50 overs. India had to chase 249 and as it has been in the series, India got a flying start. Rohit Sharma got his rhythm right from the start but lost his opening partner from the other end. 



Sharma struck a quick 35 off 20 balls but fell prey to Wellalage and soon the left-handed wicketkeeper batter Rishabh Pant ran down the pitch and got stumped out. Virat Kohli got stuck to the crease and got LBW out to Wellalage.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/08/wellalage.jpg" alt="IND vs SL 3rd ODI: Historic! Fernando-Mendis-Wellalage Trio Thrived as Sri Lanka defeated India by 110 Runs" class="wp-image-145343"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wellalage got Rohit caught (Associate Press)</figcaption></figure>



Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube and Axar Patel also got out of single digit scores. India were 8 down for just 101 runs under 18 overs. The pitch was gripping well and skidding under the lights in the second innings and Sri Lankan spinners utilized all the advantages they had.



Washington Sunder and Kuldeep Yadav showed a tough fight down the order but Theekshana took the wicket of Sunder(30) who was the aggressor from one end. Wellalage got the last wicket very quick and claimed his fifer to win the match and series as well.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/08/riyan.jpg" alt="IND vs SL 3rd ODI: Historic! Fernando-Mendis-Wellalage Trio Thrived as Sri Lanka defeated India by 110 Runs" class="wp-image-145344"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Riyan Parag misses it totally (Associate Press)</figcaption></figure>



Sri Lanka defeated India in the third ODI by 110 and this was a series win for Sri Lanka since 1997.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ind-vs-sl-3rd-odi-awards">IND vs SL 3rd ODI Awards</h2>



Player of the Match (3rd ODI)- Avishka Fernando Player of the Series:- Dunith Wellalage Maximum Sixes (3rd ODI)- Avishka Fernando



READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-reasons-india-will-be-claimed-as-favourites-in-the-champions-trophy-2025-despite-recent-losses-in-bilateral/">3 Reasons India would Favourites in the Champions Trophy 2025 Despite recent losses in Bilateral</a><div></div><div class="tdb-author-name-wrap" style="align-items: baseline"></div><div></div>

IND vs SL 3rd ODI: Historic! Fernando-Mendis-Wellalage Trio Thrived as Sri Lanka defeated India by 110 Runs

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<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/what-is-rtm-card-ipl-2025-auction/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/what-is-rtm-card-ipl-2025-auction/">IPL 2025</a>: The preparation for the 18th edition of the <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/category/t20/indian-premier-league/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/category/t20/indian-premier-league/">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL 2025) is all in full swing. All ten IPL franchises need to decide which players they want to retain and whom they want to release. There will be some players on target for the IPL teams ahead of the IPL 2025 auction.



India recently lost the ODI series against <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/category/cricket-team/icc-teams/sri-lanka/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/category/cricket-team/icc-teams/sri-lanka/">Sri Lanka</a> by a 2-0 margin. It was India's first <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/next-odi-series-for-indian-cricket-team/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/next-odi-series-for-indian-cricket-team/">bilateral ODI series </a>defeat in Sri Lanka since 1997, so it was a historic moment for the hosts. But it might end some of the Sri Lanka players with an IPL contract in the coming auction.



There will be a mega auction, and almost 200 players might be sold. So, some of them can be <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/category/cricket-team/icc-teams/sri-lanka/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/category/cricket-team/icc-teams/sri-lanka/">Sri Lankan</a> stars as well. Here we will talk about three Sri Lankan stars who did well in the IND vs SL ODIs and can get a contract in the <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2025-captains-who-can-leave-teams/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2025-captains-who-can-leave-teams/">IPL 2025 auction</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">IPL 2025: Three Sri Lankan Players who might get an IPL contract because of their performances in the IND vs SL ODIs</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">3. Charith Asalanka</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/08/Charith-Asalanka-IPL-2025-auction-1024x532.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-145373" /></figure>



<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charith_Asalanka" data-type="link" data-id="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charith_Asalanka">Charith Asalanka</a> got the captaincy of Sri Lanka after Wanindu Hasaranga. But he lost his first T20I series as a captain but did well in ODIs. Asalanka, who is an established middle order batter, showed his ability with the ball. He bowled 18 overs in three games and took six wickets at an economy rate of 2.86.



He is a smart operator with the ball but is an excellent batter. He is a real combo for any team. The <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-teams-who-can-look-for-rishabh-pant/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-teams-who-can-look-for-rishabh-pant/">IPL teams</a> always look for players who can bowl and bat, and Asalanka gives you both options. So he can be a good pick at <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ms-dhoni-reveals-retirement-plans/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ms-dhoni-reveals-retirement-plans/">IPL 2025 auction</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2. Jeffrey Vandersay</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/08/Jeffrey-Vandersay-IPL-2025-1024x532.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-145374" /></figure>



Jeffrey Vandersay was a forced change after Wanindu Hasaranga was ruled out after the first game due to an injury. But Vandersay didn't let the team feel his absence. He bowled a magical spell of 6/33 in the second game and broke India's backbone.



He took two wickets in the second game. The leg-spinner took 8 wickets in two matches and was a decent pick for the team, which is looking for an overseas spinner. <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ms-dhoni-reveals-retirement-plans/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ms-dhoni-reveals-retirement-plans/">CSK</a> generally picks Sri Lankan players, and Vandersey can give good bowling options to any team at the <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/what-is-rtm-card-ipl-2025-auction/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/what-is-rtm-card-ipl-2025-auction/">IPL 2025</a>.



Also Read: <a href="What is RTM Card; Why is it important in IPL 2025 Mega Auction">Explained: What is RTM Card; Why is it important in IPL 2025 Mega Auction</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">1. Dunith Wellalage</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/08/Dunith-Wellalage-IPL-2025.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-145375" /></figure>



All genuine all-rounders are always in high demand in auctions. That's what Dunith Wellalage brings to the table. The 22-year-old took seven wickets in three matches at an economy rate of 5.30. He was bowling well and troubled players like Kohli, Rahul, and Iyer, who are good players to spin.



With the bat, he scored 108 runs at an average of 54 and a strike rate of 104.85 with one half-century. He is a pretty good performer and can change the games in both departments. That's where he can be an asset for the teams and can get a deal at the IPL 2025 auction.



Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/next-odi-series-for-indian-cricket-team/">When is the next ODI Series for Indian Cricket Team? Check out the complete details</a>

3 Sri Lankan Star who might earn an IPL 2025 contract after doing well in IND vs SL ODI series

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is the next designation of all top teams and their fans. The tournament is all set to kick off in Pakistan on February 19. India are part of Group A, which also has Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. Team India will play their first match on February 20 against Bangladesh in Dubai.
The provisional squad for the ICC event is likely to be announced on or before January 12. There are a number of names that have been considered, and some players might get a nod in the squad. However, there will be some unlucky players who will not be able to make the cut. In this article, we will talk about three big names who might not be picked for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
<h2>Three big stars who might be dropped from rh ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad </h2>
3. Arshdeep Singh 
Indian fans can't forget the performance that Arshdeep Singh delivered in the T20 World Cup 2024. He finished the tournament as the leading wicket-taker and helped India win the long-awaited ICC title. Though Arshdeep has only played 8 ODIs so far. But with his ability to swing the new ball and then contain batters in the end, it makes him a complete white-ball bowler. However, India will already have the option of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Hardik Pandya in a 15-member squad.
2. Sanju Samson 
Sanju Samson finished 2024 as India's top scorer in T20Is. He slammed three centuries in just 12 innings and is someone who can bat anywhere and also is a keeper. But despite his batting form, Samson might not be able to make the cut. India will go with Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul as wicketkeepers, and the top order is already packed. Hence, Samson might not be able to make it into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad.
1. Suryakumar Yadav 
India's T20I captain and one of the key members of the team in the shortest format has been in and out of the ODI squad. He played an important role in India winning the T20 World Cup 2024. He is also in good form as compared to some other Indian seniors. But he won't get a chance as India might back Rahul, Pant, and Shreyas Iyer in the middle order.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-to-miss-jasprit-bumrah-in-icc-champions-trophy-2025-ace-pacer-to-travel-to-new-zealand-to-undergo-scans-reports/">India to miss Jasprit Bumrah in ICC Champions Trophy 2025? Ace pacer to travel to New Zealand to undergo scans - Reports</a>

India are likely to announce provisional squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on January 12.

India's provisional squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is likely to be revealed on January 12. We might see some big names missing out a spot in the squad.

India will play their first match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 20 in Dubai.

3 Indian Stars who might be dropped from India's squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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ICC Champions Trophy 2025: As the days go by, the buzz around speculations and predictions continues to intensify. For Team India, squad predictions have become a hot topic of discussion, sparking debates everywhere—from cricket fanatics on social media to casual conversations on the streets. Amid this growing excitement, one key question stands out: who will don the wicketkeeping gloves for India in the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
With numerous cricket experts and pundits making bold predictions about India's squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, a common thread runs through most discussions: the inclusion of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Sanju Samson.
However, opinions are far from unanimous. While some former cricketers have opted to leave Rishabh Pant out of their squads, others argue for his inclusion at the expense of Sanju Samson, fueling a heated debate among fans and analysts alike. Let's discuss all three options one by one:
<h2>KL Rahul Frontrunner to Keep Wickets?</h2>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_677fef7181149.jpg" alt="">
KL Rahul has made a compelling case to be India’s primary wicketkeeping option in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar praised Rahul’s ability to deliver consistently under pressure, highlighting his crucial contributions at No. 5 and his knack for scoring vital runs when the team needed them most.
Rahul’s reliability behind the stumps was further cemented by his record-breaking performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup. With 17 dismissals, including 16 catches and one stumping, he surpassed Rahul Dravid’s 2003 record for the most dismissals by an Indian wicketkeeper in a single World Cup edition.
These achievements underscore his dual efficiency with both the gloves and the bat, solidifying his place as a frontrunner for the role in high-stakes tournaments like the Champions Trophy.
<h2>Is Rishabh Pant Ready for ODI Format?</h2>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_677ff4b385bc4.jpg" alt="">
Rishabh Pant has proven his mettle in the Test format, but his performances in white-ball cricket have been inconsistent, as highlighted by his ODI stats: 871 runs in 31 matches at an average of 33.50 and a strike rate of 106.21. Despite his potential, these numbers suggest he lacks the maturity required for high-pressure limited-overs cricket.
However, Pant’s wicketkeeping skills set him apart. Among the three contenders, he is the most agile and reliable behind the stumps, with quick reflexes, sharp accuracy, and adaptability to various conditions. While his batting in ODIs needs improvement, his exceptional glove work makes him a strong contender for a spot in the squad.
<h2>Can Sanju's Form Secure Him a Spot?</h2>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_677ff4b73d5fc.jpg" alt="">
Sanju Samson’s impressive ODI stats—510 runs in 16 matches at an average of 56.66 and a strike rate of 99.60—underscore his potential as a reliable wicketkeeper-batter. His ability to capitalize on limited opportunities, including a century and three fifties, makes him a strong contender for the squad.
Sanjay Bangar also stated, “You have to give a place to Sanju Samson because he averages above 50 in ODI cricket. Add to that, he is a man in form as well.”
When compared to Rishabh Pant, Samson’s batting stats are significantly better, highlighting his consistency in white-ball cricket. Moreover, Samson’s wicketkeeping skills are nearly on par with Pant’s, making him a well-rounded option. His current form further solidifies his chances of overtaking Pant in the race for the role.
<h2> Who Will Keep Wickets?</h2>
KL Rahul, with his record-breaking wicketkeeping performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup and consistent contributions as a batter, emerges as the frontrunner for India’s primary wicketkeeper role. Sanju Samson, backed by Sanjay Bangar for his stellar ODI average of 56.66 and solid form, is a strong contender for the backup spot.
Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant’s exceptional wicketkeeping skills and proven Test success make him a valuable asset, though his inconsistent white-ball batting leaves room for improvement. Together, these options reflect India’s enviable depth in the wicketkeeping department heading into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 
The weight is on KL Rahul to be the first-choice wicketkeeper. Shreyas Iyer is fit and actively playing cricket to provide a good balance in the team and in his presence, KL Rahul would be the best option. Sanju Samson would be a better batter and wicketkeeper in the backup if we take Stats into account. Rishabh Pant might have to wait for a while in the white ball cricket.

With KL Rahul’s consistency, Sanju Samson’s form, and Rishabh Pant’s agility, who should India trust as their wicketkeeper in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025? The race is closer than ever.

India’s wicketkeeping dilemma: Rahul’s reliability, Samson’s form, or Pant’s agility? A tough decision awaits ahead of the Champions Trophy.

Who Will Keep Wickets for India in ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Sanju Samson, Rishabh Pant, or KL Rahul?

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The last few months have been below par for Team India in terms of performances. They didn't enjoy much time on the field. But everything can change as the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is coming up, and India will be one of the favorites teams entering the tournament.
But can they do it without Jasprit Bumrah? Well, not many will give the Indian cricket team a chance if Bumrah doesn't take part in the upcoming event. That is the reason Rohit Sharma and his men are currently in big confusion over Bumrah's participation.
Notably, the pacer didn't bowl in the final innings of the fifth test at the SCG due to a fitness issue. Though it wasn't serious and we might see the name of Jasprit Bumrah in the Indian squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, it will come with one condition.
<h2>Will Jasprit Bumrah be ready for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?</h2>
Notably, the last date to submit the provision squad for all teams is January 12. There is no doubt Bumrah will be part of the squad, but his participation in the tournament will be subject to his fitness. As reported by Hindustan Times, the pacer will only step on the field when he feels pain-free.
The report indicates that the pacer has reached New Zealand to consult Dr. Rowan Schouten, who is an orthopedic surgeon. He was the one that treated Bumrah back in 2023, when he suffered from a back injury. The report quoted, "The surgeon is in touch with BCCI’s medical team, and the selectors are expected to be informed.”
India are all set to host England for five T20Is and three ODIs before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The tour will begin on January 22 and will conclude on February 12, a week before India will play their first game of the Champions Trophy 2025. India will start their campaign with a game against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai.
India are already struggling with the bad form of the batters. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are going through rough patches. Adding to that, there is no clarity over Mohammed Shami's return. The pacer has been playing at the domestic level, but he is not getting clearance from the NCA to play for India. And if Bumrah doesn't play, India will be under immense pressure.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/australia-suffered-a-massive-blow-after-josh-hazlewood-captain-pat-cummins-is-also-likely-to-miss-icc-champions-trophy-due-to-injury/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Australia suffered a massive blow; after Josh Hazlewood, captain Pat Cummins is also likely to miss ICC Champions Trophy due to injury</a>

Jasprit Bumrah didn't bowl in the second innings of the fifth test against Australia at the SCG. He will be rested for the England series ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

India to miss Jasprit Bumrah in ICC Champions Trophy 2025? Ace pacer to travel to New Zealand to undergo scans - Reports

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just a month away, and the two-time champion, Australia, have been hit with a couple of massive injury-related blows. Star pacer Josh Hazlewood, who was ruled out of the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy, might not take part in the upcoming mega event, and now, there is another massive injury concern.
ODI captain Pat Cummins is likely to miss the coming event. This news has certainly hit the team and Australian fans, as the captain is a key member of the squad and has been nursing an ankle injury. His participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is hanging by a thin thread.
Notably, Australia are scheduled to tour Sri Lanka for two test matches ahead of the coming ICC event. Cummins has been rested, and Steve Smith has been given the captaincy duties for the upcoming series. Australia have already qualified for the World Test Championship final, which is why the coming tests don't hold much value and their result won't affect anything. Hence, Cricket Australia decided to give Cummins a rest.
<h2>Pat Cummins might miss the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to an ankle injury</h2>
The captain, Pat Cummins, played a crucial role in helping Australia win the much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He finished with the second-most wickets in the series after Jasprit Bumrah (32). Cummins took 25 wickets at an average of 21.36. He also scored 159 runs with the bat in this low-scoring series.
However, playing all five tests on the trot has seemed to have affected him, and the captain has sustained an ankle soreness. Meanwhile, the captain is on leave because of the birth of his second child, which was also one key reason for him missing the Sri Lanka tour. That's what George Bailey, the chief selector of Australia, also confirmed in one of his statements.
But the recent news has not just raised questions about his availablity but also his participation in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. He is set to undergo scans for his sore ankle. Bailey said, "We’ll have to wait and see when the scan comes back and see how it's tracking. There’s a little bit of work to do.”
That indicates that the two-time Champions Trophy winner are in jeopardy. If Cummins couldn't make it in time, then Mitchell Marsh is likely to lead Australia in the mega event, which will begin on February 19. Australia are placed in Group B, and they will begin their campaign on February 22 against England.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-champions-trophy-2025-to-shift-from-pakistan-to-uae-completely-here-s-why/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to shift from Pakistan to UAE completely? Here's why</a>

Pat Cummins led Australia to to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy win after a wait of ten years. Cummins is likely to miss the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to injury.

Australia suffered a massive blow; after Josh Hazlewood, captain Pat Cummins is also likely to miss ICC Champions Trophy due to injury

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Australia Tour of Sri Lanka 2025: Australia, after having a dominating Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, are all set to tour Sri Lanka for a red-ball series. Cricket Australia have announced the squad for the tour today and Steve Smith is named captain of the side as Pat Cummins is rested.
Australia won the Border Gavaskar Trophy after a decade this year. The series started with Perth's loss for them and many ruled them out as a competition against India this time as well. But, they owned strong character and won three out of four test matches clinching the series 3-1. 
The entire bowling department was thoroughly in the best of their forms, the batting looked damped in the first two tests but by the end of BGT 2025, the entire batting lineup got some runs from their bat. 
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_676e141bad740.jpg" alt="">
Now, Australia has unveiled a 16-player squad for their upcoming two-match Test series in Sri Lanka, with a few surprising changes. Skipper Pat Cummins will miss the tour as he takes paternity leave to welcome his second child while continuing to recover from an ankle issue that plagued him throughout the home season.
Meanwhile, Mitchell Marsh, who was part of the team that triumphed over India, has been left out. Adding to the injury concerns, Josh Hazlewood remains unavailable due to the setback that sidelined him during the latter stages of the India series. These adjustments set the stage for an intriguing challenge as Australia gears up for the Sri Lankan Tests.
<h2>Australia Squad for Sri Lanka Tour</h2>
Steve Smith (C), Travis Head(VC), Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Nathan McSweeney, Beau Webster, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Cooper Connolly, Todd Murphy, Matt Kuhnemann, Sean Abbott
Australia's squad for the two-Test series in Sri Lanka signals a clear strategy to tackle spin-friendly conditions. With only two frontline pacers, Mitchell Starc and Sean Abbott, the focus has shifted firmly to spin.
Todd Murphy and Matt Kuhnemann join the experienced Nathan Lyon, creating a strong spin arsenal designed for the turning tracks of Galle. This balanced mix of experience and fresh talent shows how the selectors are adapting to the challenges of playing conditions in Sri Lanka.
On the batting front, Nathan McSweeney has earned a spot in the squad despite falling out of favor during the India series. Adding a fresh spark, young Cooper Connolly, a left-handed batter who can also bowl orthodox spin, has received his first-ever Test call-up. His inclusion not only reflects Australia’s faith in young talent but also highlights their intent to embrace versatility.
Sam Konstas also retained his spot in the side. Alex Carey and Josh Inglis are two wicket-keeping options and the presence of Vice Captain Travis Head provides an absolute balance to the squad. With these selections, Australia seems ready to take on the Sri Lankan conditions with both skill and strategy.
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-champions-trophy-2025-to-shift-from-pakistan-to-uae-completely-here-s-why/">ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to shift from Pakistan to UAE completely? Here's why</a> 
SOURCE- <a href="https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/1877160916057313759">CRICKET AUSTRALIA</a>

Australia's squad for the Sri Lanka Tests emphasizes spin with Lyon, Murphy, and Kuhnemann. McSweeney returns, while debutant Connolly adds versatility. Starc and Abbott lead a trimmed-pace attack.

Australia strengthens spin options for Sri Lanka Tests, recalls McSweeney, and includes debutant Connolly. Starc, Abbott lead reduced pace lineup.