Sri Lanka have signalled their intent ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 by naming a well-balanced and experienced 16-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against England. The series, beginning on January 30 at the Pallekele Cricket Stadium, is being viewed as a crucial final rehearsal before the global tournament gets underway in early February.
Notably, Sri Lanka come into the T20Is after a 2–1 ODI series loss to England. While there were positives, including individual batting efforts and competitive spells with the ball, England’s consistency ultimately made the difference. The T20I series now offers Sri Lanka a chance to reset, sharpen their combinations, and build momentum. The hosts’ T20 World Cup 2026 campaign begins on February 8 against Ireland, followed by matches against Oman, Australia, and Zimbabwe.
Core group retained under Dasun Shanaka’s leadership
The Sri Lanka Cricket selectors have shown faith in continuity, retaining the core group that featured in the recent series against Pakistan. Dasun Shanaka will continue to lead the side, with the management backing his calm leadership and all-round value as the team fine-tunes its combinations for World Cup conditions. The emphasis appears to be on stability rather than experimentation, especially with the T20 World Cup just days away.
Batting unit built around experience and balance
Sri Lanka’s batting looks settled, blending established names with emerging talent. The top order will revolve around Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Kusal Janith Perera, all of whom are capable of setting the tempo early. In the middle order, Dhananjaya de Silva and Charith Asalanka add flexibility, offering both stability and acceleration depending on match situations. Young batters like Janith Liyanage and Pavan Rathnayake further strengthen the depth.
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Spin-heavy strategy for home conditions
Playing all three matches at Pallekele has influenced the squad composition, with Sri Lanka opting for a strong spin attack. Wanindu Hasaranga remains the lynchpin, supported by the control of Maheesh Theekshana and the all-round promise of Dunith Wellalage. The trio provides Shanaka with wicket-taking options in the middle overs while maintaining pressure through tight lines and variations.
Pace attack offers variety and firepower
Sri Lanka’s pace department blends experience with raw pace. Dushmantha Chameera leads the attack, while Matheesha Pathirana brings his distinctive action and death-overs expertise. Pramod Madushan and Eshan Malinga round out the seam options, giving the captain flexibility across all phases of an innings.
Sri Lanka squad for England T20Is: Dasun Shanaka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga
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