Cricket

Sri Lanka and New Zealand are set to face off in the third and final ODI of their series in Pallekele. The hosts, led by Charith Asalanka, are aiming for a 3-0 series sweep, while the visitors, captained by Mitchell Santner, are determined to end the series on a high note.Asalanka expressed his team's desire to win the series but also acknowledged the importance of giving opportunities to new players. Five changes have been made to the Sri Lankan playing XI, including the ODI debut of Chamindu Wickramasinghe.Santner, on the other hand, believes the wicket looks better for batting than in the previous game. He emphasized the need for his team to post a strong total and defend it effectively. New Zealand has also made two changes, with Zakary Foulkes and Adam Milne replacing Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy, respectively.Pitch expert Farveez Maharoof noted that the pitch has improved for batting due to reduced cracks. He suggested that chasing might be the preferred option due to the dew factor and potential rain.

Sri Lanka's ODI squad for the upcoming series against West Indies has undergone significant changes, with uncapped allrounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe and legspinner Jeffrey Vandersay earning call-ups. Wickramasinghe replaces Chamika Karunaratne, who has fallen out of favor with the new selection and coaching regime. Vandersay comes in for offspinner Akila Dananjaya.Wickramasinghe's inclusion is a testament to his impressive performances in the Lanka Premier League, where he showcased his batting prowess. He made his T20I debut against West Indies but was later replaced by Dunith Wellalage due to spin-friendly conditions.Mohamed Shiraz, who was a late addition to the squad for the India series, retains his place, while Dilshan Madushanka returns after missing the T20I series against West Indies. However, Matheesha Pathirana, who played all three T20Is against West Indies, has been omitted. Asitha Fernando completes the pace options.The spin attack will be led by Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga, with Vandersay and Wellalage providing support. Sri Lanka's batting lineup remains unchanged, with skipper Charith Asalanka leading a formidable unit that includes Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and Nishan Madushka.The three-match series will commence on October 20, with all games scheduled to be played in Pallekele.