Batter makes comeback after one-year gap as Sri Lanka announce Test squad for New Zealand series

Oshada Fernando is back in the Test setup having last played in March 2023 as Sri Lanka named their 16-member squad for the series against the Black Caps.

Fernando has demonstrated impressive form for Sri Lanka 'A', scoring 122 and 80 against South Africa 'A' earlier this month. The 33-year-old replaces Nishan Madushka, who was part of the squad that travelled to England for the three-match Test series.

Oshada Fernando's last Test match was against New Zealand in March 2023 // Getty Images

Kasun Rajitha and Nisala Tharaka are the other two casualties to have missed out, with Sri Lanka retaining 15 members who travelled to England for the tour.

Dhananjaya de Silva will continue as captain, supported by experienced players like Dimuth Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal, alongside promising youngsters such as Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama.

Squad: Dhananjaya De Silva (captain), Dimuth Karunaratne, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Oshada Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Prabath Jayasuriya, Ramesh Mendis, Jeffrey Vandersay, Milan Rathnayake.

Despite losing the series 2-1 to England, Sri Lanka enter the upcoming series against New Zealand with momentum from a remarkable Test victory in the final match at The Oval.

ALSO SEE: Latest World Test Championship Standings

This win lifted Sri Lanka into the top five of the World Test Championship standings, with a point percentage of 42.86. The Black Caps currently hold third place with 50%.