Dasun Shanaka Confirmed as Sri Lanka Captain Through 2026 T20 World Cup

The Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka’s interim role has been made permanent, replacing Charith Asalanka.

Sri Lanka has confirmed Dasun Shanaka as their men’s T20I captain through the 2026 World Cup. The decision makes his recent interim leadership role permanent, replacing Charith Asalanka.

The change comes after a period of review by the new selection committee, which has decided to keep the 25-player squad for the upcoming tournament unchanged. Shanaka recently led the team to the final of a tri-series in Pakistan.

Dasun Shanaka Replaces Charith Asalanka

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Selection Committee Chairman Pramodya Wickremesinghe confirmed the decision. “Fantastic coach,” he said, referencing another appointment, but the focus remained on leadership stability.

The move follows a tough period for former captain Charith Asalanka. His recent batting form has been poor, and Sri Lanka failed to reach the Asia Cup final under his leadership earlier this year. Reports also suggest the board was unhappy with his handling of a player safety concern during a tour to Pakistan.

With a change in captaincy regime, Dasun Shanaka is now expected to lead Charith Asalanka and other Sri Lanka teammates in the upcoming white-ball series against Pakistan and England.

Sri Lanka’s 25-member T20I squad

Dasun Shanaka, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Janith, Dhananjaya de Silva, Niroshan Dickwella, Janith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Pawan Ratnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Milan Ratnayake, Nuwan Thushara, Eshan Malinga, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushan, Mahish Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Vijayakant Vyaskanth, Travin Mathew, Kamil Mishara