Avishka Fernando tests positive for covid-19, ruled out of Zimbabwe ODIs

Sri Lanka top-order batter Avishka Fernando on Saturday tested positive for covid-19 which has ruled him out of the upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe.

Fernando, who has been vaccinated, will now not be a part of the Sri Lanka squad's bio-bubble which players were expected to join on Sunday.

Sri Lanka has not announced the squad for the three-match series beginning on January 16 at Pallekele. Despite the loss of Fernando, the availability of Niroshan Dickwella, Kusal Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka, whose one-year suspensions were lifted on Friday, is a big boost.

The series will be a part of the ICC World Cup Super League. Sri Lanka are currently sixth in the table with four wins and 10 losses from 15 matches played. Zimbabwe are at bottom of the 13 teams in the league after six losses and 2 wins from nine matches.