Sri Lanka’s cricket fraternity is abuzz following the reveal of a power-packed 16-member T20 squad set to tangle with England in a thrilling three-match series beginning January 30, concluding February 3. It’s the perfect prelude to the 2026 T20 World Cup, launching February 7.
Opting for evolution over revolution, selectors kept faith in proven performers from late T20 assignments, honing a cohesive unit. For England and the hosts, it’s do-or-die evaluation of peak performance metrics in a World Cup preview.
Spotlight falls on returnees Kusal Perera, Isitha Malinga, and Dushmantha Chameera, omitted from the ODI series England clinched 2-1. Perera’s return electrifies the openers, Chameera fortifies the seam battery with Pathirana and Madushan, and Malinga hunts for stardom.
Batting backbone via Nissanka, Mendis, Asalanka, de Silva; flair from Liyanage, Mendis, Rathnayake. Spinners Hasaranga, Theekshana, Wellalage master the middle overs.
Squad list led by Shanaka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Pawan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Matheesha Pathirana, Isitha Malinga.
With strategic depth and fresh energy, Sri Lanka eyes dominance, transforming this series into a launchpad for global ambitions.