Sri Lanka announced a squad of 25 members for the upcoming T20I World Cup, which is scheduled to start on February 7, 2026. Ahead of that, the Sri Lankan cricket board has taken some significant steps. Along with announcing the tentative squad, they chose their captain for the elite tournament as well. They picked Dasun Shanaka as their captain for the team. 

While announcing the probable squad, Sri Lanka Cricket Team's Chief Selector Pramodaya Wickramasinghe informed that their previous captain Charith Asalanka's form is not satisfying, so he has been removed from the captaincy. On the other hand, Shanaka's recent form is brilliant, and he has the experience of the World Cup as well. So the board again appoints him as the skipper. 

Sri Lanka is in a tough group in the upcoming T20I World Cup. Australia, Zimbabwe, Ireland, and Oman are in the same group with Sri Lanka. From every group, the top two teams will qualify for the next round. This time the World Cup will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, so the Sri Lankan team will play most of its matches at home. 

Read More: Watch: Sanju Samson's well-connected shot hit umpire's knee during IND vs SA 5th T20I

Groups for the T20 World Cup 2026:

Group A: India, Pakistan, Namibia, United States, Netherlands.

Group B: Sri Lanka, Australia, Ireland, Zimbabwe, Oman.

Group C: England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Italy.

Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Canada, and United Arab Emirates.

Sri Lanka's 25-member squad for the T20I World Cup 2026:

Dasun Shanaka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Niroshan Dickwella, Janith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Pawan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Milan Rathnayake, Nuwan Thushara, Ishan Malinga, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Vijayakanth Vyaskanth, and Traveen Mathew.

Bangladesh have announced their ODI squad ahead of the three-match ODI series that is expected to commence on July 2 at the R. Premadasa Stadium. The out-of-form wicket-keeper batter Litton Das has been recalled for this series and will be a part of the white-ball setup for Bangladesh. Unlike the case with the Test series, Bangladesh have appointed a new white-ball captain. The spin-bowling all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who has not featured in the Test series, will take over the captaincy duties from Najmul Hossain Shanto and lead the Tigers in the ODI series.

Additionally, the team had to make five forced changes following the departure of veteran cricketers Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim from the ODI format. Mohammad Naim, Shamim Hossain, and Tanvir Islam are the other three cricketers apart from Litton Das who have been recalled ahead of the series. Naim's last appearance in the ODI format was in 2023. Besides, Shamim's last appearance in this format also came way back in 2023. However, Islam has not featured for Bangladesh in this format and gets a maiden call-up on the back of just six T20Is. 

See also: Bangladesh set to boycott their tour to Pakistan amid tensions with India

Litton gets another opportunity despite his poor run in ODIs

While speaking to ESPNcricinfo, BCB Chief Selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain confirmed that Litton will be a part of Bangladesh's white-ball setup for the upcoming ODI series. Although the Chief Selector is fully aware of the batter's stark drop in form, he remains hopeful of a turnaround and believes that he has what it takes to regain his lost form.  

"Litton Das was in a bad patch but time is the best healer. He is the T20 captain, so we can consider him till the next T20 World Cup. If someone has to return to form, it is best to spend a long time in the middle. We feel that Litton can take his form from ODIs to T20Is."

In the last eight ODIs, Litton has only managed 35 runs between the tours of New Zealand in December 2023 and the West Indies in December 2024. Due to his poor run, Litton missed out on a spot for the Champions Trophy 2025.

Bangladesh squad

Mehidy Hasan Miraz (capt), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Mohammad Naim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Jaker Ali, Shamim Hossain, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Hasan Mahmud

As 2024 draws to a conclusion, the One-Day International format (ODI) in men's cricket continues to have a constant and prominent presence. Several players, particularly from Asia, showed their mettle.

The ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 provided an excellent opportunity for the teams to test their assets and evaluate individuals. The Champions Trophy, however, would not feature Sri Lanka or the West Indies. Notably, numerous Sri Lankan players made significant contributions this year. Charith Asalanka, one of the picked players, heads the team.

Overall, this year's primary attention was on the T20 World Cup and Test cricket, and as a result, ODIs were somewhat overlooked as we approached the Champions Trophy, and we should expect a different scene in the coming days. On that note, we present to you, the Cricket Winner ODI Team of the Year, 2024 edition. 

The former Sri Lankan Test player turned coach Dulip Samaraweera finds himself embroiled in a soup as Cricket Australia has slapped yet another ban on him following his allegations of offensive behavior towards another player while coaching.  Samaraweera, who was previously handed a 20-year ban from the governing body due to his inappropriate conduct towards a female player faces another allegation this time around.

Unmasking the details of his second offense as a coach

The second offense that was supposedly committed by him was as a private coach while he was employed by Cricket Victoria. Although Samaraweera dismissed all the claims but refrained from partaking in the investigation. Hence, as a result, a decision was made by Cricket Australia to ban the Sri Lankan coach for another 10 years for violating the game's code of conduct.

The 10-year ban will be cumulatively added to his already-persisting 20-year ban which will effectively exclude Samaraweera from the domestic coaching circuit till 2044 when he will be 72. Australian Associated Press (AAP) acknowledges that neither complainant has chosen to take the matter further and pursue criminal charges at this time.

However, Samaraweera's news on player misconduct drew a strong response from Cricket Victoria chief executive Nick Cummins who deemed his actions "utterly reprehensible" and "a betrayal of everything we stand for". His comments came once Cricket Australia concluded the findings of its initial investigation in September. Cummins stressed that the safety and the psychological well-being of every member at Cricket Victoria is of primary importance. to him.

He further admitted that his administration is committed to helping the affected player in every possible manner and will go to all lengths to help the victim materialize her dreams both on and off the field. 

"From an organization perspective, the safety and well-being of everyone at Cricket Victoria is paramount. We will not tolerate any behavior which compromises that position, or our people, and will always support our culture of speaking up. The victim in this case has demonstrated incredible strength of character and courage in speaking up. She will continue to receive our ongoing support to allow her to achieve her goals on and off the field."

A look into Samaraweera's professional cricketing career

Samaraweera was born in the capital city of Colombo and represented Sri Lanka in seven Tests between 1993 and 1995 before transitioning into coaching. The seven-time Test representative, dedicated nearly 16 years to Cricket Victoria's women's program, serving as a longstanding assistant coach for the Melbourne Stars in the WBBL, prior to her resignation in May. The 42-year-old served as the assistant coach for the Starts from the inaugural WBBL season in 2015 and subsequently went on to serve as Victoria's interim head coach for most of last summer.

Samaraweera was poised to take up a full-time coaching role for Cricket Victoria but resigned in May as the current policies in place barred him from hiring his brother Thilan to the coaching staff.

See also: Injury blow for Sri Lanka as Dushan Hemantha replace Wanindu Hasaranga for NZ ODIs

Prabath Jayasuriya’s performance in the two-Test series against New Zealand was nothing short of remarkable. Across four innings, he bowled a total of 122.4 overs, claiming 18 wickets at an impressive average of 21.39. His economy rate of 3.14 suggests that he maintained tight control throughout, making it difficult for the New Zealand batters to score freely. His best bowling figures of 6/42 underscore his match-winning abilities, while he recorded two five-wicket hauls, further highlighting his dominance over the Kiwi lineup. Jayasuriya’s sharp turn and accuracy, combined with subtle variations, kept the New Zealand batters on edge, forcing them into frequent errors.

Throughout the series, Jayasuriya's ability to build pressure was evident, as he bowled a significant 517 dot balls. He effectively neutralized the scoring threats, conceding just 29 boundaries and 10 sixes, often trapping the batters with clever field placements and spinning deliveries. His strike rate of 40.89 indicates that he consistently broke through the batting order at regular intervals, ensuring that New Zealand could not establish any long-lasting partnerships. Jayasuriya’s performance was the cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, as he exposed the weaknesses of the New Zealand batters in facing quality spin bowling, making him the standout performer of the series.

See Also: Ravindra Jadeja's 300+ wickets in test career analysis

Prabath Jayasuriya's Mastery Over New Zealand’s Batting Lineup: A Detailed Breakdown

The New Zealand batters found themselves in a battle against Prabath Jayasuriya's spin throughout the two-Test series, as his clever use of angles, flight, and turn created consistent problems for the visitors. One of his key achievements was removing major players from the Kiwi lineup, each of whom struggled to handle his deceptive spin. Ajaz Patel, who faced Jayasuriya for eight overs, managed to score only 22 runs before falling victim to his sharp bowling. Patel’s strike rate was restricted to 48.0, and his dismissal reflected Jayasuriya's ability to get through the lower order quickly. Similarly, Devon Conway, a top-order threat for New Zealand, managed to survive for only 6.4 overs against the spinner before being dismissed. With an economy of 4.50, Conway's attacking instincts were visible, but Jayasuriya trapped him, allowing just 30 runs before the breakthrough.

All-rounder Daryl Mitchell, who is known for his resilience, fared better than some of his teammates but still struggled to counter Jayasuriya's variations. Over 11.3 overs, Mitchell scored 38 runs, and despite a reasonable economy rate of 3.30, Jayasuriya’s mastery over him was evident in the two crucial wickets he claimed, forcing the Kiwi all-rounder into errors with pressure-building tactics. Glenn Phillips also encountered similar issues, scoring 47 runs over 11.5 overs, but his aggressive attempts were curtailed by Jayasuriya’s smart field placements and turn. Phillips fell twice to Jayasuriya, with an economy rate of 3.97, showing how the spinner kept him in check while getting through his defenses.

New Zealand’s star batsman Kane Williamson, who is often the backbone of their lineup, faced the most overs against Jayasuriya (22.5) but couldn’t escape his spin web. Williamson scored 66 runs at a cautious rate, maintaining an economy of 2.89. Jayasuriya’s ability to hold Williamson at bay with accurate lines and lengths was vital in destabilizing the Kiwi innings, as he eventually claimed the prized wicket twice. Even the solid Tom Latham, in just two innings, managed 39 runs at an economy of 3.84, but Jayasuriya’s persistence wore him down, dismissing him once at a key moment.

Jayasuriya’s impact extended beyond the top-order batters, as he also made inroads against the lower middle order and tail-enders. Mitchell Santner, a dangerous player down the order, faced 11 overs, scoring only 34 runs before being removed by Jayasuriya, who bowled with an impressive economy of 3.09. Rachin Ravindra, who had been in good form coming into the series, could only manage 46 runs in 15.5 overs before Jayasuriya snared his wicket with his ability to maintain tight lines and frustrate the batter. His economy of 2.91 showed how hard Ravindra had to work for his runs, and Jayasuriya’s relentless pressure was the key to his dismissal.

The Sri Lankan spinner was particularly effective against the tail-enders. Tim Southee, New Zealand’s captain and lower-order hitter, was rendered ineffective by Jayasuriya’s guile. Southee was dismissed three times in just 4.1 overs, managing only 15 runs with an astonishingly low average of 5.0 and a strike rate of 8.3. Jayasuriya’s ability to remove Southee quickly, along with his dismissal of players like Will O’Rourke and Tom Blundell (who did manage 46 runs but fell three times), ensured that New Zealand’s lower order offered little resistance. Jayasuriya’s control and effectiveness were underscored by his high dot ball percentage, with players like O’Rourke facing 92.9% dot balls and being removed cheaply.

See Also: Can India overcome early new ball struggles in the second test?

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has named Charith Asalanka as their new T20I captain. This decision comes ahead of the three match T20I series against India, the T20 World Cup 2024 champions starting on July 27 in Pallekele.

Asalanka steps into the role after Wanindu Hasaranga resigned following Sri Lanka’s poor performance at the T20 World Cup 2024. The SLC board has not yet officially announced Asalanka’s new role.

Sri Lankan Sports Minister Harin Fernando has approved a 16 member squad for the series against India. The team mixes young talent with experienced players like Dinesh Chandimal and Chamindu Wickremesinghe.

Key players in the T20I squad

Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Janith Perera, known for their explosive batting, are included in the squad. Kamindu Mendis and Dasun Shanaka will strengthen the middle order, while Wanindu Hasaranga will provide spin options against India.

Mahesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana will boost Sri Lanka’s bowling with a mix of spin and pace. Experienced players like Chandimal and Avishka Fernando will be key in tough situations.

The pace attack will be led by Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara, with Binura Fernando and the young all rounder Wickremasinghe offering extra bowling options. Young all rounder Dunith Wellalage has also made the squad.

“The Sri Lanka Cricket Selection Committee has chosen the 16-member squad for the T20I series against India, approved by Minister of Sports Harin Fernando. The games will take place on July 27, 28, and 30 at PICS, Pallekele.” SLC stated

Schedule for T20I and ODI series

The T20I series will be held at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on July 27, 28, and 30. The ODI series will follow on August 2, 4, and 7 at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

Sri Lanka’s T20 squad for India series

Charith Asalanka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Matheesha Pathirana, Kusal Janith Perera, Avishka Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando.

The T20 World Cup 2024 is all set to kick-start on June 2nd, promising to be an electrifying tournament with 20 teams vying for the ultimate glory. This edition marks a historic milestone, featuring the largest number of participating teams and being hosted across two diverse locations: the USA and the West Indies.

Among these teams, Sri Lanka stands out as a potential dark horse, ready to leverage their well-rounded bowling attack and balanced side under the leadership of Wanindu Hasaranga.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: 3 key players to watch out for from South Africa

Sri Lanka’s Journey in T20 World Cups

Sri Lanka’s history in T20 World Cups has been a mix of highs and lows. They clinched the title in 2014, showcasing their potential to perform on the big stage. Despite some inconsistent performances in subsequent tournaments, Sri Lanka has always been known for its fighting spirit and ability to surprise stronger teams. Sri Lanka will kick off their campaign against South Africa on June 3rd in New York.

3 Sri Lanka’s players to watch out for in T20 World Cup 2024

Sri Lanka’s success will heavily rely on the performances of a few key players who have proven themselves time and again in international cricket.

1. Pathum Nissanka

Pathum Nissanka, a stable opening batter, is one of Sri Lanka’s mainstays at the top of the order. His ability to adapt to different conditions and provide solid starts is crucial for the team’s success.

Nissanka is closing in on 2500 T20 runs, with over 50 sixes and 250 fours. His consistency at the top of the order is vital for Sri Lanka’s success.

Nissanka’s stability allows other aggressive players like Kusal Mendis to play freely. His ability to bat through the innings provides a solid platform for Sri Lanka.

2. Wanindu Hasaranga

Wanindu Hasaranga, the captain and spin-bowling all-rounder, is the backbone of the Sri Lankan team. His prowess with the ball and crucial runs with the bat make him indispensable.

Hasaranga has taken 243 wickets in 175 matches with an impressive average of 16.77. His economy rate of 6.76 underlines his control and effectiveness.

Hasaranga’s leadership will be pivotal in guiding Sri Lanka. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations will be crucial for Sri Lanka’s aspirations.

3. Matheesha Pathirana

Matheesha Pathirana is Sri Lanka’s go-to bowler in the death overs. His ability to bowl at high speeds and pick up wickets makes him a key player.

Pathirana has 71 wickets in T20s at an average of 19.28. His knack for picking wickets in the last four overs makes him a crucial asset for the team.

Sri Lanka’s strength lies in their balanced bowling attack and experienced batting lineup. With players like Pathum Nissanka anchoring the innings and Wanindu Hasaranga providing crucial breakthroughs, the team is well-equipped to handle the pressures of the tournament.

As cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the start of the fifth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) on July 1, the cricketing world buzzes with anticipation. With over 500 overseas players throwing their names into the hat for the upcoming auction, the stage is set for an exhilarating tournament showcasing talent from around the globe.

Key Players in the Auction

Among the notable names vying for spots in various LPL franchises are seasoned international cricketers such as New Zealand Test captain Tim Southee, all-rounder James Neesham, and the experienced Mushfiqur Rahim. The presence of stalwarts like Usman Khawaja, Tabraiz Shamsi, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz add to the tournament’s allure. Their participation elevates the quality of cricket and promises thrilling encounters on the field.

See Also: Rishabh Pant set to be the new VC in T20 WC for India: Reports

Auction Date Uncertainty

However, amidst the excitement, uncertainty looms over the auction proceedings. While the influx of overseas player registrations has been confirmed, the governing council is yet to announce the auction date. With the T20 World Cup scheduled to conclude on June 29, the window for conducting the auction narrows, leaving organizers and franchises in a state of suspense. The need for prompt communication from the governing body regarding the auction date becomes increasingly apparent to ensure seamless planning and execution.

Tournament Structure

The upcoming edition of the LPL will adhere to the established format, featuring five teams competing in a total of 24 matches. Each team will face off against the others twice during the league stage, setting the stage for intense rivalries and captivating cricketing action. Following the league stage, the tournament will progress to the qualifier and eliminator matches, culminating in the grand final on July 21, promising fans a spectacle to remember.

Competition with Other Leagues

While anticipation for the LPL runs high, it faces stiff competition from other cricketing leagues like The Hundred and Major League Cricket (MLC). With both leagues commencing shortly after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup, the race to secure marquee players intensifies. The governing council of the LPL must act swiftly to finalize the auction details and secure the participation of foreign cricketers, lest they risk losing out to rival leagues in the battle for talent.

The Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka cricket match sparks yet another controversy, offering fans an eventful spectacle. The ongoing second T20I of the three-match series unfolds at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet.

In a pivotal moment during the second innings, Sri Lanka finds themselves in turmoil. On the first delivery of the fourth over, Binura Fernando delivers a skiddy back-of-a-length ball, angling in from around off. Soumya Sarkar attempts a pull shot but fails to make contact.

The DRS Drama: Sarkar’s Controversial Decision Keeps Sri Lanka on Edge

A distinct sound accompanies the ball’s passage to Kusal Mendis, prompting the Sri Lankan team’s appeal and the umpire’s decision to give it out. However, Sarkar vehemently denies making contact and opts for the DRS after consulting his partner, Litton Das.

Upon review by the third umpire, replays indicate a spike. Nevertheless, the official determines there’s a discernible gap between bat and ball. The umpire concludes that the spike occurs post-ball passage, contradicting the Sri Lankan players’ discontent.

Sri Lanka’s Head Coach, Chris Silverwood, expressed intense frustration with the third umpire’s decision. Players like Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Charith Asalanka, and others surrounded the on-field umpires, engaging in lively discussions with visible animation.

Adding insult to injury for Sri Lanka, Soumya Sarkar swiftly followed up with a boundary on the subsequent delivery. The left-handed batsman played a crucial role at the top of the order, spearheading Bangladesh’s valiant pursuit of 166 runs.

Partnering with Litton Das, Sarkar amassed 68 runs for the opening stand, applying relentless pressure on Sri Lanka from the outset. Sarkar contributed 26 runs off 22 balls, while Das ended his innings with a commendable 36 runs off 24 deliveries.

Bangladesh Clinches Victory in Second T20I Against Sri Lanka, Leveling the Series

Following a strong start by Soumya Sarkar and Litton Das, Matheesha Pathirana’s performance for Sri Lanka injected new life into the game. Removing both openers within two overs, he reignited hopes for Sri Lankan fans.

However, the new skipper, Najmul Hossain Shanto (53), and Towhid Hridoy (32), showcased exceptional prowess, steering Bangladesh towards victory. The pair formed an unbroken 87-run partnership, securing an eight-wicket win with two overs to spare. This result leveled the series 1-1, with one match remaining.

SEE ASO:Virat Kohli’s comeback date unveiled? AB de Villiers shares significant update

In the first innings, Sri Lanka amassed a total of 165 runs on the scoreboard. Kusal Mendis (36) and Kamindu Mendis (37) provided a solid foundation at the top. Following their dismissals, Charith Asalanka (28), Angelo Mathews (32), and Dasun Shanaka (20) made valuable contributions, propelling the team beyond the 160-run mark.