Sri Lanka announce squad for Pakistan T20I series 2026
Sri Lanka has named an 18-member, spin-focused squad for the Pakistan T20I series as part of their preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026.
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Sri Lanka Cricket has announced an 18-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Pakistan. The series will begin on January 7 and is part of Pakistan’s tour of Sri Lanka. All matches will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.
The series is seen as an important preparation phase for both teams ahead of their upcoming international schedules. With the T20 World Cup 2026 drawing close, Sri Lanka have avoided experimentation by picking settled and familiar faces.
Captain Dasun Shanaka will lead the side, which is pretty much in line with Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup 2026 plans. The selectors have stuck with the players already in their World Cup setup, very much intended to build stability and match readiness.
Spin-Heavy Squad Selected for Dambulla Conditions
The Dambulla pitch is expected to favor spin, and Sri Lanka’s squad has been picked with those conditions in mind. The selectors have included several quality spinners along with flexible all-rounders, while also ensuring enough pace depth to manage varying situations in a match.
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At the top of the order, Pathum Nissanka will play a key role after showing steady form in recent years. He will be complemented by Kamil Mishara and Kusal Mendis as Kusal Perera and Charith Asalanka add experience to the middle order with much adaptability.
In the bowling section, Wanindu Hasaranga will lead the spin attack, while Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage will back him. Dushmantha Chameera will head the pace unit, with Matheesha Pathirana set to return after the Asia Cup 2025, as the series also serves as important preparation for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Sri Lanka squad for Pakistan T20Is:
Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Traveen Mathew, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Eshan Malinga.
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