Is Dasun Shanaka Set to Lead Sri Lanka in T20Is Against Pakistan?
Synopsis
Sri Lanka has announced its squad for the crucial T20I series against Pakistan, a significant step in preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Led by Dasun Shanaka, the team combines seasoned players with newcomers, promising an exciting clash. The series begins on January 7, offering a vital opportunity for the team to refine its lineup.
Key Takeaways
Dasun Shanaka leads the Sri Lankan squad.
The team features a mix of experienced players and newcomers.
Thirteen players from the 2024 World Cup squad are retained.
Series against Pakistan begins on January 7 .
Lasith Malinga serves as fast bowling consultant.
New Delhi, Jan 6 (NationPress) Sri Lanka has revealed its squad for the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan, an essential phase of their preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, set to commence on February 7.
The team, under the captaincy of Dasun Shanaka, features a mix of experienced players and newcomers. Several players in this lineup were absent from Sri Lanka’s previous preliminary World Cup squad, introducing an additional level of competition as the team works to finalize its roster ahead of the global tournament.
A total of thirteen players from the 2024 T20 World Cup squad have been retained for this series, including Shanaka, Hasaranga, Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, de Silva, Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, and Dilshan Madushanka.
As the World Cup draws near, the series against Pakistan presents Sri Lanka with a crucial chance to enhance their team dynamics and build momentum against a formidable opponent.
In their last encounter, Pakistan emerged victorious in the final of a T20I tri-series held in Rawalpindi.
While Sri Lanka continues to sharpen its preparations, Pakistan, which has yet to announce its World Cup squad, promises to be a tough challenge. The series kicks off on January 7 with the first match, followed by the second and third on January 9 and 11, respectively. All matches will take place at the same venue in Dambulla.
In preparation for the World Cup, Sri Lanka has also appointed the legendary pacer Lasith Malinga as a fast bowling consultant for a 40-day period, starting from December 15 to January 25, 2026.
Malinga has served in this capacity on two official occasions and has provided informal guidance to leading bowlers over the years. For the last two years, he has been advising the coaching staff led by Sanath Jayasuriya.
Sri Lanka T20I squad: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Traveen Mathew, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Eshan Malinga.
Point of View
Sri Lanka's strategic move to finalize its T20I squad against Pakistan reflects a commitment to excellence. This preparation is vital not just for the upcoming World Cup but also for the team's future in international cricket. Engaging with a strong opponent like Pakistan will serve as an essential test of their capabilities.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is leading the Sri Lanka T20I squad?
The T20I squad of Sri Lanka is captained by Dasun Shanaka.
When do the T20I matches against Pakistan start?
The T20I series against Pakistan begins on January 7.
How many players from the 2024 World Cup squad are retained?
Thirteen players from the 2024 T20 World Cup squad have been retained for the series.
Who has been appointed as the fast bowling consultant?
Lasith Malinga has been appointed as the fast bowling consultant for a 40-day period.
Where will the matches be held?
All matches will be played at the same venue in Dambulla.
