Pavan Rathanayake included in T20I squad to face England

Pavan Rathanayake has been added to Sri Lanka's T20I squad for the three-match series against England following his 121 off 115 balls in the third ODI two nights ago. The 23-year-old last played in T20Is against Pakistan in November and was omitted from the initial squad for the England T20Is. His recent century, albeit in a losing cause, has earned him a recall.

Notable omissions from the squad include fast bowler Nuwan Thushara, batting all-rounder Kamindu Mendis, and leg-spinner Dushan Hemantha. Thushara had been a consistent presence in T20I squads over the past two years but is left out after several modest performances since September.

Left-arm spinning all-rounder Dunith Wellalage retains his place, though he hasn't played a T20I since September. Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga are the other frontline spinners.

In the seam-bowling department, Eshan Malinga and Pramod Madushan are included alongside Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana.

Aside from Rathanayake's inclusion, the batting lineup is largely as expected, with Kusal Perera returning in the only format he now plays.

Sri Lanka are yet to announce their squad for the T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7. Teams have until January 31 to make changes to their squads, after which ICC approval is required for any alterations.

Sri Lanka squad for England T20Is:
Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathanayake, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga