Sri Lanka has announced their squad for the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan, a crucial part of their preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which kicks off on February 7.
Squad Composition
The team, captained by Dasun Shanaka, features a mix of experienced players and newcomers. Notably, some players in this squad were not included in Sri Lanka’s earlier preliminary World Cup squad, heightening competition as the team finalizes selections ahead of the global tournament.
Thirteen players from the 2024 T20 World Cup squad have been retained, including Shanaka, Hasaranga, Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, de Silva, Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, and Dilshan Madushanka.
Importance of the Series
With the World Cup rapidly approaching, the series against Pakistan provides Sri Lanka a vital opportunity to fine-tune team combinations and build momentum against a formidable opponent. The last encounter between these teams saw Pakistan emerge victorious in the final of a T20I tri-series held in Rawalpindi.
Series Schedule
The series will commence on January 7 with the first match, followed by the second and third matches on January 9 and 11, respectively. All three games will take place at the same venue in Dambulla.
Lasith Malinga’s Role
In preparation for the World Cup, Sri Lanka has appointed legendary pacer Lasith Malinga as a fast bowling consultant for a 40-day period, effective from December 15 to January 25, 2026. Malinga has previously served in this role on two official occasions but has also informally guided top 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.