Sri Lanka have taken their first decisive step towards the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 by naming a 25-member preliminary squad, with experienced all-rounder Dasun Shanaka appointed as captain. The announcement signals a return to familiarity and stability as the island nation begins shaping its plans for the global showpiece.
Shanaka, who has previously led Sri Lanka in white-ball cricket, will oversee a group that blends proven international performers with emerging talent. The squad retains a strong batting spine through Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera and Charith Asalanka, ensuring continuity in the top and middle order as Sri Lanka look to sharpen their attacking template.
All-round depth remains one of the side’s biggest strengths. Wanindu Hasaranga continues to be central to Sri Lanka’s T20 ambitions, supported by the versatility of Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis and Dunith Wellalage. Their ability to contribute across disciplines gives the team flexibility in team balance and match-ups, particularly in varied conditions.
The bowling attack features a familiar mix of pace and spin. Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana headline the fast-bowling department, offering pace, movement and death-overs expertise, while Maheesh Theekshana provides control and mystery in the middle overs. Nuwan Thushara and Dilshan Madushanka add further depth, ensuring competition for spots remains intense.
Sri Lanka have also kept an eye on the future by including younger prospects such as Eshan Malinga, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth and Traveen Mathew. Their selection offers them an extended window to integrate into the senior setup and press their case ahead of the final squad announcement.
Continuity has clearly been prioritised. Thirteen players from the 2024 T20 World Cup squad have been retained, underlining the selectors’ belief in the existing core while allowing room for refinement rather than wholesale change.
With the tournament set to begin on February 7, the preliminary squad gives Sri Lanka ample time to experiment, manage workloads and finalise combinations. Under Shanaka’s leadership, the focus will now shift to building consistency and clarity, as Sri Lanka aim to arrive at the World Cup with momentum, balance and belief.
