Vishmi Gunaratne Returns as Sri Lanka Announce ODI Squad for Pakistan Series

Sri Lanka have announced a 15-member squad for their upcoming home ODI series against Pakistan, with opener Vishmi Gunaratne making a return to the national setup. Her comeback could see Sri Lanka revive the successful opening combination of Gunaratne and captain Chamari Athapaththu.

Wicketkeeper-batter Anushka Sanjeewani and uncapped fast bowler Rashmika Sewwandi have also earned recalls as Sri Lanka look to strengthen their squad ahead of the three-match ICC Women’s Championship 2025-2029 series.

The selections come with four players from the squad that completed a 3-0 ODI sweep against Bangladesh in April being left out. Kaushini Nuthyangana, Piumi Wathsala, Malki Madara and Sugandika Kumari have all been omitted from the latest squad.

Among the exclusions, seamer Malki Madara’s absence stands out. The 25-year-old had enjoyed her best run in ODI cricket since making her debut in 2025, claiming eight wickets in six matches this year. However, Sri Lanka have chosen to give 19-year-old Rashmika Sewwandi an opportunity as they continue to build their pace resources.

Sugandika Kumari’s omission also raises questions, especially with the series scheduled to be played in Hambantota, where conditions are not expected to heavily favour spin. Sri Lanka still have several spin options available, including Inoka Ranaweera, Dewmi Vihanga, Kavisha Dilhari, Nimasha Meepage and captain Athapaththu.

Gunaratne’s return creates a selection challenge at the top of the order. Hasini Perera has performed strongly since moving back to the opening position earlier this year, scoring 229 runs at an average of 38.16, including two half-centuries. A possible solution could see Perera move back to the No. 3 position, allowing Gunaratne to partner Athapaththu at the top.

The middle order remains largely unchanged, while Sanjeewani’s return adds experience and depth to the lower batting order.

Sri Lanka’s pace attack will feature a youthful look, with 23-year-old Kawya Kavindi the most experienced seamer in the group with five ODIs. Chethana Vimukthi has played three matches, while Sewwandi is yet to make her ODI debut.

The three-match ODI series against Pakistan will be played at Hambantota on July 23, 25 and 28. The matches will form part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2025-2029 cycle.

Sri Lanka Women’s ODI Squad vs Pakistan

Chamari Athapaththu (captain), Vishmi Gunaratne, Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Hansima Karunaratne, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani, Chethana Vimukthi, Inoka Ranaweera, Nimasha Meepage, Imesha Dulani, Dewmi Vihanga, Rashmika Sewwandi, Kawya Kavindi.