Sri Lanka has announced their squad for the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan, an important step in their preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, starting February 7.
Squad Composition
Captained by Dasun Shanaka, the team features a mix of experienced players and newcomers. Notably, some squad members were not part of Sri Lanka’s earlier preliminary World Cup lineup, adding a competitive edge as they finalize their team ahead of the global tournament.
Thirteen players from the 2024 T20 World Cup squad have been retained for this series, including Shanaka, Hasaranga, Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, de Silva, Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, and Dilshan Madushanka.
Opportunity to Gain Momentum
With the World Cup approaching quickly, the series against Pakistan provides Sri Lanka a crucial chance to fine-tune their combinations and build momentum against a strong opponent. In their last encounter, Pakistan won the final of a T20I tri-series held in Rawalpindi.
As Sri Lanka hones their preparations, Pakistan—who have yet to announce their World Cup squad—will present a tough challenge. The series kicks off on January 7, with the first match, followed by the second and third matches on January 9 and 11, respectively. All three matches will take place at the same venue in Dambulla.
Consultant Appointment
In the lead-up to the World Cup, Sri Lanka has also appointed legendary pacer Lasith Malinga as a fast bowling consultant for a 40-day stint, effective from December 15 to January 25, 2026. Malinga has previously served in this role on two official occasions and has also provided informal mentoring to leading bowlers over the years. For the last two years, he has been advising the coaching staff, led by Sanath Jayasuriya.
Sri Lanka T20I Squad
- Dasun Shanaka (c)
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kamil Mishara
- Kusal Mendis
- Kusal Perera
- Dhananjaya de Silva
- Charith Asalanka
- Janith Liyanage
- Kamindu Mendis
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Dunith Wellalage
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Traveen Mathew
- Dushmantha Chameera
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Nuwan Thushara
- Eshan Malinga