Sri Lanka Unveils Final Squad for T20 World Cup 2026 as Co-Hosts
Co-hosts Sri Lanka have become the final team to announce their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, which is scheduled to commence on February 7. The Sri Lanka Cricket board revealed a 15-member squad on February 2, 2026, with experienced all-rounder Dasun Shanaka appointed as the captain for the prestigious tournament.
Power-Packed Batting Lineup and All-Round Strength
The squad boasts a formidable batting unit featuring heavy hitters such as Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and former skipper Charith Asalanka. These players are expected to provide the firepower needed in the shortest format of the game.
In the all-round department, Sri Lanka has included versatile players like Wanindu Hasaranga, Kamindu Mendis, and Dunith Wellalage, who can contribute significantly with both bat and ball. This depth adds balance and flexibility to the team composition.
Bowling Attack and Injury Concerns
The bowling unit is spearheaded by established pace options including Dushmantha Chameera and the promising Matheesha Pathirana, who recently showcased his skills in the series against England. The spin department is strengthened by mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana, known for his variations and control.
However, the squad announcement comes with a significant injury concern. Fast bowler Eshan Malinga, who dislocated his shoulder during Sunday's match against England, has been named in the squad but faces almost little to no chance of playing in the tournament. The 24-year-old, with eight wickets in eight T20 matches for Sri Lanka, suffered the injury during his second over on Sunday and was unable to continue as England secured a series win in Kandy.
Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed on Instagram, "Malinga suffered a shoulder dislocation while bowling… he will undergo an MRI scan to assess the extent of the injury and determine the next course of action." This development casts doubt on his availability for the World Cup, potentially impacting Sri Lanka's pace attack.
Tournament Schedule and Venue Details
Sri Lanka will conclude their ongoing series with England on Tuesday before embarking on their T20 World Cup campaign. Their group stage matches are as follows:
- Opening match against Ireland in Colombo on Sunday.
- Clash vs Oman on February 12 at Pallekele.
- Crucial encounter against 2021 champions Australia on February 16 at Pallekele.
- Final group stage match against Zimbabwe on February 19 in Colombo.
The Lankans will play all their group stage matches across two venues: Colombo and Pallekele. Specifically, the matches against Oman and Australia will be held at Pallekele, while the encounters with Ireland and Zimbabwe will take place in Colombo.
Full Squad List and Final Preparations
The complete Sri Lanka squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 includes:
- Dasun Shanaka (Captain)
- 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
As the 20th and final team to announce their squad, Sri Lanka enters the tournament with a mix of experience and emerging talent. The team's performance will be closely watched, especially given their status as co-hosts and the added pressure of playing on home soil. With key players in form and strategic venues selected, Sri Lanka aims to make a strong impact in the T20 World Cup 2026.
