Sri Lanka Name 15-Member Squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
Sri Lanka Cricket has officially unveiled a 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with experienced all-rounder Dasun Shanaka entrusted with leading the side on the global stage. The selection reflects a blend of proven match-winners, emerging young talent, and specialist T20 performers as Sri Lanka aim to make a deep run in the tournament.
Leadership and Core Batting Unit
Captain Dasun Shanaka will once again shoulder leadership responsibilities, bringing power-hitting ability and valuable medium-pace options. At the top of the order, Pathum Nissanka is expected to provide stability and consistency, having established himself as one of Sri Lanka’s most reliable white-ball batters.
The squad features multiple versatile batting options in Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, and Charith Asalanka, all capable of anchoring an innings or accelerating when required. Kusal Janith Perera, known for his aggressive stroke play, adds explosive firepower, particularly in the powerplay overs.
Young talents Kamil Mishara and Janith Liyanage further strengthen the batting depth, while Pavan Rathnayake earns a place as a promising inclusion who offers flexibility in the middle order.
All-Round Strength and Spin Threat
Sri Lanka’s spin department remains one of their strongest assets. Star leg-spinning all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga will be central to the team’s bowling plans while also providing crucial lower-order runs. Left-arm spinning all-rounder Dunith Wellalage adds control and batting depth, giving the side balance in both departments.
Mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana is expected to play a key role, especially during the powerplay, where his variations can disrupt opposition momentum.
Pace Attack with Variety
Sri Lanka’s pace unit combines experience with raw pace. Dushmantha Chameera leads the fast-bowling attack with his ability to generate high speeds and extract bounce. Slinging pacer Matheesha Pathirana, known for his unorthodox action and deadly yorkers at the death, adds a crucial T20 dimension.
Young fast bowler Eshan Malinga provides additional pace resources, while the squad’s balance ensures multiple bowling combinations depending on conditions.
Squad Overview
Sri Lanka Squad – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
- 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
Expectations Ahead of the Tournament
With a well-rounded squad that covers power-hitting, spin variety, and death-bowling specialists, Sri Lanka appear to have built a team tailored for modern T20 cricket. The combination of seasoned internationals and fearless youngsters signals a forward-looking approach as they prepare to challenge the world’s best.
Fans will be hoping this balanced unit, under Shanaka’s leadership, can recapture Sri Lanka’s proud T20 legacy and mount a serious title challenge at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
