The T20 World Cup 2026 has witnessed another twist as Sri Lanka loses Matheesha Pathirana to a hamstring tear sustained against Australia. The star bowler’s departure from the field mid-match highlighted the severity, and now Dilshan Madushanka steps up for his T20I return after a long hiatus since July 2024. With Super 8 entry confirmed, this reshuffle comes at a pivotal time.
Pathirana joins Wanindu Hasaranga on the sidelines, weakening an already stretched bowling unit. Vikram Rathour’s candid assessment ahead of the Zimbabwe fixture confirmed the pacer’s tournament exit, forcing strategic adjustments.
Sri Lanka’s flawless group stage record speaks volumes of their resilience. Led by Dasun Shanaka, they dismantled Australia by eight wickets, thanks to Pathum Nissanka’s explosive 100* off 52 and Kusal Mendis’s 51 off 38. Breezing past 182 in 18 overs, they set a high benchmark.
The February 19 showdown with Zimbabwe offers a chance to fine-tune before Super 8. Squad highlights include captain Shanaka, opener Nissanka, wicketkeeper-batsmen Mendis and Perera, all-rounders like Kamindu and Asalanka, plus the pace trio of Chameera, Madushanka, and Madushan. Sri Lanka’s campaign hangs in the balance, but their batting depth provides optimism.