SRH picked it up for INR 1.2 crore.
Sri Lanka today announced a 17-member squad for their upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The news was confirmed through an official press release by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).
The ODI series is scheduled for January 5, 8 and 11, 2025, with matches taking place in Wellington, Hamilton and Auckland respectively.
Notably, a surprise pick from the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) auction, Eshan Malinga, is now in the process of making his international debut after being called up.
Malinga, 23, was bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in last month’s IPL 2025 auction as an uncapped overseas player. He joined SRH for INR 1.2 crores.
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Who is Eshan Malinga?
The young Sri Lankan right-arm fast-medium bowler is considered a promising talent and has already grabbed attention with his raw pace and disciplined bowling. Furthermore, he has shown adaptability and his consistent performances in domestic cricket and in the Sri Lanka A team are proof of this.
In first-class cricket, he has claimed 39 wickets in 16 matches, maintaining an average of 28.74 and recording three four-wicket hauls. In List A cricket, he has been equally notable, taking 20 wickets in 12 matches, including a five-wicket haul, at an average of 25.15.
His T20 statistics highlight his effectiveness in the shortest format of the game. With an economy rate of 7.35 and strike rate of 17.6, Malinga has shown his ability to restrict runs while also making crucial breakthroughs in pressure situations.
These impressive domestic performances, combined with his versatile bowling skills, suggest that Malinga is well prepared for the challenges of international cricket and will be keen to make a strong impact once the opportunity arises.
Sri Lanka squad for New Zealand ODI series
Charith Asalanka (Captain), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Nuwanidu Fernando, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamidu Wickramasinghe, Asitha Fernando, Mohamed Shiraz, Lahiru Kumara , Eshan Malinga.
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