[4] In February 2021, Sri Lanka's coach Mickey Arthur and batsman Lahiru Thirimanne returned positive COVID-19 tests.

[13] However, Shanaka did not depart for the tour with the rest of the team due to visa issues,[14] with Angelo Mathews named as Sri Lanka's stand-in captain for the T20I matches.

[28] Ahead of the tour, Lahiru Kumara was ruled out of Sri Lanka's white-ball squad due to a positive test for COVID-19,[35] with Suranga Lakmal named as his replacement.

[37] On 5 March 2021, Sri Lanka Cricket issued a statement stating that Shanka would join up with the team for the ODI matches.

[38] Prior to the second ODI match, Angelo Mathews left Sri Lanka's squad for the rest of the tour to return home due to a family matter.