Domestic International

Sri Lanka Name 16-Man Squad for England T20I Series

Sri Lanka Name 16-Man Squad for England T20I Series
  • PublishedJanuary 28, 2026

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming T20 International series against England, a contest expected to test the island nation’s depth and adaptability against one of the strongest white-ball sides in world cricket.

The squad will be led by Dasun Shanaka, who continues as captain, bringing experience and leadership to a side that blends established stars with exciting young talent. The series forms a crucial part of Sri Lanka’s preparation for future ICC T20 tournaments and high-profile bilateral assignments.

Balanced Squad with Experience and Youth

Sri Lanka have opted for a balanced combination, featuring proven performers in the batting and bowling departments while also rewarding consistent domestic and emerging players.

At the top of the order, Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, and Kusal Janith Perera provide a solid batting core, capable of both explosive starts and match-defining innings. The middle order looks strong with the presence of Dhananjaya De Silva, Charith Asalanka, and Janith Liyanage, offering stability and power-hitting options.

All-round strength is a key highlight of the squad, with Wanindu Hasaranga and Dunith Wellalage expected to play pivotal roles. Hasaranga, in particular, remains Sri Lanka’s trump card in T20 cricket, contributing with both wickets and quick runs.

Bowling Attack Built for T20 Conditions

Sri Lanka’s bowling unit appears well-suited for T20 conditions, combining variety, pace, and mystery spin. Maheesh Theekshana’s unique bowling action will be crucial against England’s aggressive batters, while the pace attack will be led by Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana, the latter known for his lethal yorkers at the death.

Young pacer Eshan Malinga and Pramod Madushan add depth and freshness to the fast-bowling department, while Pavan Rathnayake provides an additional spin option.

Full Sri Lanka T20I Squad vs England

  1. Dasun Shanaka – Captain
  2. Pathum Nissanka
  3. Kamil Mishara
  4. Kusal Mendis
  5. Kusal Janith Perera
  6. Dhananjaya De Silva
  7. Charith Asalanka
  8. Janith Liyanage
  9. Pavan Rathnayake
  10. Wanindu Hasaranga
  11. Dunith Wellalage
  12. Maheesh Theekshana
  13. Dushmantha Chameera
  14. Pramod Madushan
  15. Matheesha Pathirana
  16. Eshan Malinga

Series Outlook

The England T20I series promises to be a high-intensity battle, with Sri Lanka aiming to assert themselves against a formidable opponent known for their aggressive brand of cricket. For several players in the squad, this series presents an opportunity to cement their place in the national setup.

With a mix of firepower, tactical spin options, and youthful energy, Sri Lanka will be hoping to put up a strong performance and build momentum as they continue their journey in international T20 cricket.