Kamindu Mendis replaces Dhananjaya de Silva as Sri Lanka confirms squad for T20 World Cup 2026

According to reports, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has made last-minute team changes for the T20 World Cup 2026, which is scheduled to start on February 7. The Sunday Times reports that Kamindu Mendis has been summoned back by the selectors for the international tournament, while Dhananjaya de Silva has been dropped.

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Mendis was left out, as Kusal Perera went back to the sidelines. Perera, who was dropped for the previous series against Pakistan, replaced Mendis, a batting all-rounder known for his part-time spin and superb fielding. Given Perera's previous struggles with form, the choice has drawn criticism.

“A player like Dhananjaya is useful because of his all-round ability, especially in Sri Lankan conditions. But with his present form, his place in the team is a big question,” former Sri Lanka cricketer Russell Arnold had opined via Newswire.

Meanwhile, Pramod Madhushan has been replaced by Pavan Rathnayake to complete the eventual squad that will hit the ground running in the worldwide tournament. While Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranaga, and Maheesh Theekshana are the spinners, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, and Eshan Malinga are part of the pace assault. 

The selection committee appears to be favouring "impact players" over conventional anchors, as seen by the choice to remove an experienced campaigner like Dhananjaya de Silva. It is tough for the selectors to overlook Kamindu Mendis's claim to a berth in the world-stage lineup, given his outstanding performance in both domestic and franchise cricket.

The Lankan Lions, who are in Group B of the international competition, will take the field against Ireland on February 8 in Colombo to start their campaign. Four days later, they will play Oman at Pallekele for their second group stage match. On February 16, they will play Australia at the same location. At the R. Premadasa Stadium, Shanaka & Co. will play their final group stage game versus Zimbabwe.

Sri Lanka's squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka (captain), Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, and Eshan Malinga.

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