Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe due to a suspected case of dengue. The opener’s absence may also extend to the three-match T20I series that follows if the diagnosis confirms dengue.

An official statement from the board revealed that Nissanka is currently receiving treatment in the hospital. In his place, 19-year-old Shevon Daniel, who has previously featured in a T20I but not in ODIs, has been named as the replacement.

Although Daniel is primarily an opener, the presence of Avishka Fernando and captain Kusal Mendis, who are both capable of opening the batting, may impact his inclusion in the XI for the first ODI on Saturday. Despite his limited experience, Daniel’s recent performance in List A cricket has shown promise, with a notable half-century while representing Sinhalese Sports Club in the Major Clubs Limited Over Tournament.

Nissanka’s absence comes as a significant setback for Sri Lanka, given his impressive record in 2023, where he amassed 1151 ODI runs at an average of 44.26. Having maintained a strike rate of 87, Nissanka emerged as one of the team’s most reliable batters. Notably, his average of 82.33 in the four innings played against Zimbabwe underscores his impact on the team’s performance.

All three ODIs, along with the subsequent T20Is, are scheduled to take place at Khettarama.