Sri Lanka T20 World Cup squad announced as they prepare for the T20 World Cup 2026 has included Kamindu Mendis in their squad and omitted Dhananjaya de Silva from their final 15-man squad which has raised the question of who the middle-order batsman will be for Sri Lanka.
Key Selection Changes in Sri Lanka T20 World Cup Squad
The most discussed change is the return of Kamindu Mendis, who was not included in the playing XI during the last T20I series against Pakistan and England. He comes in for Dhananjaya de Silva, who has not been able to accelerate in the last few innings and has not made a strong case with the bat.
Young batter Pavan Rathnayake (23) has been given a surprise entry, while Eshan Malinga has been included despite dislocating his shoulder earlier this week. Fast bowler Pramod Madushan is ruled out.
Kamindu vs Dhananjaya: Tactical Change
Though Kamindu’s recent form has been average, with 159 runs at an average of 19.87 since the start of 2025, his strike rate of 130.32 is a slightly comforting factor. His capability to bowl with both hands is an added advantage, just like Dhananjaya’s overall performance.
Although Kamindu has bowled only six overs in 12 T20Is since 2025, it seems that his versatility is more appreciated by the selectors than Dhananjaya’s recent performance, especially in the high-pressure middle overs.
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Wellalage and the Middle-Order Puzzle
Kamindu’s recall also provides an opportunity for left-arm spin all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, who has international T20 experience, albeit limited. The 23-year-old has only played six T20Is, but his overall experience, which includes a stint in the SA20 with Paarl Royals and leading Sri Lanka A, gives him credibility for a spot in the side.
Wellalage’s overall T20 strike rate of 106.14 and ODI strike rate of 84.20, however, indicates that his selection is more based on his potential and recent ODI appearances.
Pavan Rathnayake Rewarded for ODI Heroics
Another pick on the basis of potential is Pavan Rathnayake, who caught the selectors’ attention with a century in the third ODI against England. Though he has had limited exposure to T20 cricket, having batted only once in three matches, his recent performance of 40 off 22 against England has lifted his profile.
Though Rathnayake has a strike rate of 100.00 in T20 cricket, having played 25 innings, he is recognized for his talent to attack spin, which could be an added advantage for Sri Lanka’s troubled middle order.
Sri Lanka’s Middle-Order Concerns Continue
The regular changes are a sign that Sri Lanka continues to have issues with its middle order. While the top three of Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, and Kusal Mendis are regulars, the regularity of Charith Asalanka and Dasun Shanaka at spots 4 and 5 has been inconsistent.
Since the start of 2025:
- Asalanka has an average of 15.15 and a strike rate of 122.36
- Shanaka has an average of 23.83 but a better strike rate of 143.00
This has often forced Sri Lanka to send Janith Liyanage to bat at spot 7, which has impacted their bowling attack.
Kusal Perera Retained for Firepower
The inclusion of Kusal Perera in the squad is a result of Sri Lanka’s requirement for power hitters in the middle order. Although he has an average of 23.8 since 2025, his strike rate of 141.1 indicates that he has the ability to turn the match around quickly. He is still one of the favorites to play at No. 5 or 6 in the T20 World Cup 2026.
Bowling Unit Remains a Major Strength
Sri Lanka look much more established in their bowling lineup. With the presence of Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, and Eshan Malinga, they have excellent pace bowlers for all stages of the innings.
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The absence of Pramod Madushan, Nuwan Thushara, and Binura Fernando has been due to competition for a spot in the playing eleven as well as some recent form issues. In the spin department, there are no surprises with Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana spearheading the attack, along with Wellalage, Asalanka, and Kamindu.
Sri Lanka’s Group and Fixtures – T20 World Cup 2026
Co-hosts Sri Lanka are placed in Group B alongside Australia, Ireland, Oman, and Zimbabwe. All group matches will be played at home:
vs Ireland – February 8, Colombo
vs Oman – February 12, Pallekele
vs Australia – February 16, Pallekele
vs Zimbabwe – February 19, Colombo
Sri Lanka T20 World Cup Squad 2026
Dasun Shanaka (capt), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga
Key Takeaways
Kamindu Mendis is back in the Sri Lankan squad as they shuffle their middle-order lineup
Dhananjaya de Silva is left out because of some concerns regarding his form
The inclusion of Rathnayake and Wellalage shows that Sri Lanka is looking to the future
Sri Lanka’s bowling is their strongest area as they head into the T20 World Cup 2026
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