Dasun Shanaka To Lead Sri Lanka As 18-Member Squad Announced For Pakistan T20Is

Sri Lanka Cricket had named Dasun Shanaka as captain while announcing an 18-member squad for the three-match T20I series against Pakistan, starting January 7.

Sri Lanka Cricket has unveiled an 18-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Pakistan, which is scheduled to begin on January 7. The series is part of Pakistan’s tour of Sri Lanka and will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.

The Dambulla leg is expected to play a key role in preparations for both sides ahead of their upcoming international commitments, including the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

As expected, and in line with the T20 World Cup 2026 template, Dasun Shanaka was named captain of a strong and familiar squad. There were no major surprises, with Sri Lanka Cricket opting to stick with players who are already part of their World Cup plans.

Sri Lanka Goes All-Rounder and Spin Heavy

From the squad composition, it was clear that the selectors placed strong emphasis on spin bowling and multi-skilled all-rounders, keeping home conditions in mind. Notably, every player selected for the Pakistan T20I series was drawn directly from Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad.

The Dambulla pitch is known for its dry and turning nature, which traditionally assists spinners, while also offering early pace and bounce for seamers. Sri Lanka’s squad appears well-equipped to exploit these conditions.

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Pathum Nissanka, who has been averaging 36.8 with the bat since 2025, is expected to anchor the top order, with Kamil Mishara and Kusal Mendis set to follow. Captain Dasun Shanaka will play a key role as an all-rounder, alongside other dependable performers such as Charith Asalanka.

Wanindu Hasaranga will lead the spin attack, while Dushmantha Chameera, who picked up 22 wickets at an average of 18.4 in 2025, will spearhead the pace unit. Matheesha Pathirana is also a notable inclusion and is set to return after the Asia Cup 2025, with the pacer keen to make an impact ahead of the T20 World Cup.

Sri Lanka squad for Pakistan T20Is

Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Traveen Mathew, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, and Eshan Malinga.