In a strategic squad announcement from Colombo, Sri Lanka reveals its 16-strong T20 lineup to face England in a three-game series from January 30 to February 3. This encounter is more than a bilateral—it’s Sri Lanka’s blueprint-building exercise for the 2026 T20 World Cup starting February 7.
Building on recent T20 momentum, the board emphasizes retention of star talents to cultivate consistency. Both teams view this as prime real estate to evaluate batting firepower, bowling bite, and overall synergy mimicking World Cup intensity.
Absentees from the ODI loss (2-1 to England) make waves: Kusal Perera returns as a dynamic opener, Dushmantha Chameera bolsters the quicks alongside Pathirana and Madushan, and Isitha Malinga steps up for his big break.
Perera’s nous at the crease promises acceleration, Chameera’s pace adds teeth, and Malinga could emerge as the next sensation. Expect Nissanka, Mendis, Asalanka, and de Silva to lay platforms, with Liyanage, Mendis, and Rathnayake providing finishing touches.
The spin trio of Hasaranga, Theekshana, and Wellalage ensures tactical depth.
Dasun Shanaka captains: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Pawan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Matheesha Pathirana, Isitha Malinga.
Sri Lanka’s calculated reinforcements signal intent, positioning them to roar back against England and charge toward World Cup contention.