Pavan Rathnayake 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 the T20Is against Pakistan in November and was omitted from the squad to play England in three T20Is heading into the World Cup. But his knock, albeit in a losing cause, has opened the selection doors once more.

There are notable omissions to the squad ahead of Sri Lanka's last series before they co-host the World Cup. Fast bowler Nuwan Thushara, and batting all-rounder Kamindu Mendis will miss the series while legspinner Dushan Hemantha has also been left out. Thushara had been a consistent presence in Sri Lanka's T20I squads over the past two years, but his omission comes after several modest performances since September.

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

On the seam-bowling front, Eshan Malinga and Pramod Madushan make the squad, in addition to Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana.

Aside from Rathnayake's inclusion, the batting is largely as expected, with Kusal Perera coming back in the only format he now plays.

Sri Lanka are yet to announce their squad for the T20 World Cup, which will start on February 7. Teams have time till January 31 to make changes to squads, following which they will have to get the approvals from the ICC to make changes.

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 Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga