Shanaka to Lead SL Until T20 WC 2026
Selection Committee Backs Leadership Continuity
Sri Lanka Cricket has confirmed that Dasun Shanaka will continue as the national T20 captain until the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The announcement was made by newly appointed Selection Committee Chairman Pramodya Wickremesinghe during his first official media interaction at Sri Lanka Cricket headquarters. So Let’s take a look at Shanaka to Lead SL Until T20 WC 2026.
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The decision signals a clear intent from the board to prioritize stability and long-term planning as Sri Lanka prepares for a demanding international calendar leading into the global tournament.
No Changes to T20 World Cup Core Squad
Wickremesinghe revealed that the previous selection panel had already finalized a 25-member T20 squad as part of World Cup preparations. After reviewing the structure and balance of the group, the new committee decided to retain the same pool without alterations.
This move reflects confidence in the existing setup and avoids unnecessary disruption at a crucial stage of preparation. Shanaka will therefore continue to captain the side in upcoming T20 series against Pakistan and England, which are seen as vital build-up assignments.
Why Dasun Shanaka Remains the Preferred Choice
Under Shanaka’s leadership, Sri Lanka have shown improved clarity in T20 roles, particularly in high-pressure situations. His calm approach, combined with tactical flexibility, has helped the team compete more consistently against top-ranked sides.
Selectors believe Shanaka’s experience, along with his strong rapport with senior players and emerging talents, makes him the right figure to guide the team through the transition phase ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Balanced Squad with Experience and Youth
The retained 25-member squad highlights Sri Lanka’s strategy of blending proven match-winners with developing players. Established names such as Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Charith Asalanka, and Dushmantha Chameera form the backbone of the team.
At the same time, young prospects like Matheesha Pathirana, Dunith Wellalage, Milan Ratnayake, and Vijayakant Vyaskanth underline Sri Lanka Cricket’s focus on building depth and future-ready combinations.
Road Ahead to the 2026 T20 World Cup
With Shanaka confirmed as captain, Sri Lanka can now focus entirely on performance and consistency rather than leadership uncertainty. The upcoming bilateral series will be crucial in refining combinations, assessing bench strength, and addressing key areas such as death bowling and middle-order stability.
The board’s decision reflects a long-term vision—giving the captain and squad enough time to grow together before the biggest T20 challenge ahead.
FAQs
Q1. Until when will Dasun Shanaka captain Sri Lanka in T20s?
Dasun Shanaka will lead Sri Lanka until the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Q2. Has Sri Lanka changed its T20 squad after the new selection committee took charge?
No, the 25-member squad remains unchanged as approved by the previous committee.
Q3. Which series will Shanaka captain next?
He will lead Sri Lanka in upcoming T20 series against Pakistan and England.
Q4. What is the main reason behind retaining Shanaka as captain?
Selectors cited leadership stability, experience, and long-term planning for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
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