T20 World Cup 2026 Doubt as Eshan Malinga Suffers Shoulder Injury

Sri Lanka fast bowler Eshan Malinga suffered a shoulder injury during the England T20I, putting his T20 World Cup 2026 availability in doubt.

Sri Lanka’s preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 have suffered a setback after fast bowler Eshan Malinga picked up a shoulder injury. The incident took place during the second T20I against England in Pallekele. The 24-year-old hurt his left, non-bowling shoulder in the eighth over, soon after a rain interruption.

Malinga left the field immediately and did not return. Sri Lanka Cricket later confirmed that he will travel to Colombo for an MRI scan. The results will decide the next steps in his recovery.

“He will return to Colombo today, where he will undergo an MRI scan to assess the extent of the injury and determine the next course of action,” read an SLC media release.

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Malinga has emerged as a key option after a strong IPL 2025. He has taken eight wickets in eight T20Is since debuting in November. Sri Lanka has not finalised their 15-member T20 World Cup squad. Any changes after January 31 will need ICC approval. Pramod Madushan could step in if required.

Malinga’s Injury Proves Costly for Sri Lanka

Notably, Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka pointed to Eshan Malinga’s injury as a key factor after the team lost the T20I series against England.

“We did a lot of things right, so I wouldn’t blame the rain. Eshan Malinga’s injury played a part – he’s a very good death bowler and losing him midway affected us. I’m happy with the batting performance,” Shanaka said.

In the match, Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 189 runs but lost momentum after Malinga left the field midway through the innings. The fast bowler managed to deliver only eight balls before his injury forced an exit. England chased down the target successfully, with Tom Banton playing a decisive role. Banton scored a fluent half-century and earned the Player of the Match award.