In a dramatic leadership shake-up just months before the global tournament, Sri Lanka Cricket has removed Charith Asalanka from the captaincy and reinstated experienced all-rounder Dasun Shanaka as the T20I skipper for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2025. The board simultaneously announced a 21-player preliminary squad for the marquee event, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka later next year.
Leadership U-Turn: Shanaka Returns to Helm
The decision marks a significant reversal for Sri Lanka's T20I setup. Dasun Shanaka, who led Sri Lanka to the Asia Cup 2022 title, has been handed back the captaincy after being dropped from the squad earlier this year. His reappointment suggests the selectors are banking on his prior experience and leadership during high-pressure tournaments. Charith Asalanka, who took over the T20I captaincy in Shanaka's absence, has been relieved of his duties after a brief stint at the top.
This move comes amidst Sri Lanka's ongoing search for stability and consistent performance in the shortest format. The selectors, led by Upul Tharanga, have opted for a seasoned head to guide a squad blending youth and experience through the World Cup campaign on home and Indian soil.
Preliminary Squad Composition: Mix of Experience and Youth
The 21-member preliminary squad serves as a broad pool from which the final 15-player contingent will be selected closer to the tournament. The list features several notable inclusions and confirms the return of key players.
Veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews finds a place in the squad, reinforcing the team's middle order with his vast experience. The pace bowling department will be bolstered by the return of Dushmantha Chameera, who has been working his way back from injury. The spin arsenal remains strong with the presence of star bowler Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana.
The batting unit is set to be anchored by the likes of Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, with the explosive Sadeera Samarawickrama also in the mix. The squad also includes promising young talents who have impressed in domestic circuits and recent bilateral series.
Strategic Implications and Road Ahead
The sudden change in captaincy so close to a World Cup is a high-stakes gamble by Sri Lanka Cricket. It indicates a clear strategic shift, prioritizing Shanaka's proven track record in ICC events over Asalanka's newer leadership. The team management will hope this decision brings clarity and direction to their preparations.
The immediate focus for the team will be on upcoming bilateral series and the all-important final squad selection. The final 15-player squad for the T20 World Cup 2025 must be submitted to the ICC by a deadline in early 2025. Until then, players in this preliminary list will be under intense scrutiny to secure their spots.
This squad announcement sets the stage for Sri Lanka's campaign to reclaim T20 glory, especially with the advantage of playing a significant portion of the tournament in familiar subcontinental conditions. The reinstatement of Dasun Shanaka as captain adds a compelling narrative to their World Cup journey.
