Is Eshan Malinga Out of the SL vs ENG 5th T20I Due to a Shoulder Injury?
Synopsis
In a major blow for Sri Lanka, Eshan Malinga has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I against England due to a shoulder injury. This development raises concerns about his availability for the upcoming World Cup. With his recent impressive form, the team faces significant challenges in the absence of their key bowler.
Key Takeaways
Eshan Malinga suffers a shoulder injury before the final T20I against England.
The injury raises doubts about his participation in the upcoming World Cup.
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed the injury and the ongoing assessment process.
Pramod Madushan is likely to fill the void left by Malinga.
The team faces challenges in finalizing their World Cup squad.
Colombo, Feb 2 (NationPress) Sri Lanka faces a significant injury challenge ahead of the concluding T20I against England, as Eshan Malinga has been officially ruled out of Tuesday's match due to a dislocated shoulder, as confirmed by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).
The 24-year-old fast bowler is now in a race against time to recover in time for the upcoming World Cup after sustaining this injury during Sunday’s match against England in Pallekele. The incident occurred in an unexpected manner during the eighth over of England's innings, just as the game resumed following a lengthy rain interruption.
Malinga was delivering the initial ball of the over when he seemingly injured his left, non-bowling shoulder at the moment of release. He promptly grabbed his shoulder and fell to the ground during his follow-through. The delivery itself went above waist height and was ruled a no-ball by the on-field umpire.
SLC stated in a media release, "He will return to Colombo today for an MRI scan to evaluate the severity of the injury and decide the next steps."
This injury poses a considerable challenge for Malinga, who has quickly ascended the ranks of Sri Lanka's fast-bowling talent in recent months. Following a standout debut in the Indian Premier League in 2025, he has claimed eight wickets in his eight T20I appearances since his international debut in November, showcasing an impressive strike rate of 17.1.
As of now, Sri Lanka has not appointed a replacement for Malinga in the squad for the third T20I, leaving Pramod Madushan as the sole frontline seamer available. Initially considered a backup for Dushmantha Chameera in the series, Madushan is now anticipated to join the playing XI.
With SLC yet to confirm their World Cup squad, Malinga's position in the final 15-player group remains uncertain. Any modifications post the January 31 submission deadline will require ICC approval, adding further complexity to the decision-making.
Should Sri Lanka decide to make a change, they have multiple pace-bowling alternatives. Madushan and Nuwan Thushara are seen as the primary candidates, with Madushan likely to receive an immediate chance to prove himself in the series finale. Thushara has been a reliable performer within Sri Lanka's T20I roster over the last year.
Additionally, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando, and Dilshan Madushanka remain in the mix, with Binura and Madushanka providing left-arm options should the selectors choose to adjust their bowling lineup.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the impact of Eshan Malinga's injury on Sri Lanka's cricketing prospects. His recent form has been a beacon of hope for the team, and his absence could significantly hinder their performance. The selectors face a challenging task in finding a suitable replacement, and as always, we stand by the nation's cricketing journey.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury has Eshan Malinga sustained?
Eshan Malinga has suffered a dislocated shoulder, which has ruled him out of the T20I match against England.
Will Eshan Malinga be fit for the World Cup?
It remains uncertain if Eshan Malinga will recover in time for the upcoming World Cup, as he faces a race against time.
Who will replace Malinga in the squad?
Currently, Pramod Madushan is expected to step into the playing XI, with no official replacement named yet.
What has been Malinga's performance recently?
Malinga has taken eight wickets in his eight T20I appearances since his debut, boasting a strike rate of 17.1.
What are the options for Sri Lanka's pace attack?
Sri Lanka has several pace bowling options, including Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando, and Dilshan Madushanka.
