Sri Lanka Announce Dasun Shanaka-Led T20 World Cup 2026 15-Member Squad

Sri Lanka has announced their squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with all-rounder Dasun Shanaka leading as captain.

Shanaka was named captain in the preliminary squad released in December.

The squad

boasts a strong core of white-ball experience, including Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and Charith Asalanka.

Sri Lanka Squad For ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026:

Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga

Sri Lanka – Fixtures:

• February 8: vs Ireland, Colombo
• February 12: vs Oman, Pallekele
• February 16: vs Australia, Pallekele
• February 19: vs Zimbabwe, Colombo

The squad’s all-round depth is a key strength, with Wanindu Hasaranga, Kamindu Mendis, and Dunith Wellalage contributing with both bat and ball.

The bowling unit features established pacers Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana, as well as mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana.

Test Captain Dropped

Sri Lanka dropped Test captain Dhananjaya de Silva from their 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup. De Silva was recalled for a three-match T20 international series against Pakistan early last month after an 18-month absence and played in the opening game against England in the ongoing series. However, he was dropped for the second T20, and the final match is scheduled for Tuesday.

Since his recall, he has only scored 43 runs in three innings and taken one wicket with his off-spin. Against England at Pallekele last week, he struggled to 11 off 12 balls before being dismissed by Adil Rashid.

Seam bowler Eshan Malinga has been included in the squad despite suffering a shoulder injury against England on Sunday.

Sri Lanka is currently playing a T20I series against England at home, with England leading 2-0. The final game is scheduled for tomorrow.

Sri Lanka previously won the tournament in 2014, defeating India in the final to claim the title.

(With inputs from Agencies)