Malinga dropped for Pakistan ODIs due to poor form

Sri Lanka pacer Lasith Malinga has been left out of the 15-member ODI squad for the five-match series against Pakistan, beginning October 13 in Dubai.

Reflecting on Malinga's axing, Sri Lanka Cricket revealed that the pacer has not been considered for selection because of his recent dip in form and in the context of the country's plans in view of the 2019 World Cup.

It should be noted that Malinga has appeared in only 13 ODIs since his return to international cricket in June this year.

He, however, has clearly been a diminished force, averaging 62.30 for each of his 10 wickets.

Meanwhile, Angelo Mathews was once again unavailable for selection due to an ankle injury, ESPNcricinfo reported.

Another shocking omission in the ODI squad is that of opening batsman Danushka Gunathilaka, who averages 42.41 in 12 50-over matches he played so far this year.

Test skipper Dinesh Chandimal and Chamara Kapugedara have been included for series against Pakistan while spinner Jeffrey Vandersay has also found place in the ODI squad after being left out since February this year.

Fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera, who could not get a place in the Test squad for the ongoing Two-match series against the Sarfraz Ahmed-led side, has been recalled in the ODI squad.

Sri Lanka squad: Upul Tharanga (capt), Dinesh Chandimal, Niroshan Dickwella,Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Milinda Siriwardana, Chamara Kapugedara, Thisara Perera, Seekuge Prasanna, Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal, Dushmantha Chameera, Vishwa Fernando, Akila Dananjaya, Jeffrey Vandersay.