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Key Takeaways
- 1🏏 Pavan Rathnayake recalled to Sri Lanka T20I squad after scoring 121 off 115 balls in the third ODI against England
- 2❌ Nuwan Thushara dropped after modest performances since September despite being a regular for two years
- 3🔄 Kamindu Mendis and legspinner Dushan Hemantha also omitted from the T20I squad
- 4🎯 Dunith Wellalage retains his place despite not playing a T20I since September
- 5📅 Sri Lanka yet to announce T20 World Cup squad with January 31 deadline approaching
- 6🏆 T20 World Cup begins February 7, making England series crucial for final squad spots
"Legspinner Dushan Hemantha has also been left out while Dunith Wellalage retains his place"
Pavan Rathnayake Earns Sri Lanka T20I Recall After Heroic Century; Thushara and Kamindu Mendis Dropped
Sri Lanka Cricket has announced their squad for the upcoming T20I series against England, with Pavan Rathnayake earning a well-deserved recall following his match-defining century in the ODI series. The squad announcement also sees significant omissions, with Nuwan Thushara and Kamindu Mendis notably left out.
Rathnayake's ODI Heroics Pay Dividends
Pavan Rathnayake's inclusion comes on the back of a spectacular performance in the third ODI against England, where he scored a maiden international hundred — an impressive 121 runs off 115 balls. The innings showcased his ability to anchor an innings while maintaining a healthy scoring rate, qualities that Sri Lanka's selectors have clearly valued heading into the T20I format.
Rathnayake's recall represents a significant boost to Sri Lanka's batting depth as they prepare for both the England series and the upcoming T20 World Cup.
High-Profile Omissions Raise Eyebrows
The squad announcement has raised questions with the exclusion of several established names:
- Nuwan Thushara — The fast bowler had been a consistent presence in Sri Lanka's T20I squads over the past two years. However, his omission comes following several modest performances since September, suggesting the selectors are looking for fresh options in the pace department.
- Kamindu Mendis — The versatile batting allrounder has also been left out, a surprising decision given his reputation as one of Sri Lanka's most talented young cricketers.
- Dushan Hemantha — The legspinner has also missed out on selection, with Sri Lanka opting for a different spin combination.
Spin Department Remains Strong
Despite some changes, Sri Lanka's spin attack looks formidable:
- Wanindu Hasaranga — The premier legspinner continues to lead the spin department
- Maheesh Theekshana — Mystery spinner adds variety to the attack
- Dunith Wellalage — The left-arm spinning allrounder retains his place despite not featuring in a T20I since September
Additionally, both Dhananjaya de Silva and Charith Asalanka offer fingerspin options, giving captain Dasun Shanaka plenty of variety.
Pace Attack Reshuffled
The seam bowling contingent features a mix of experience and emerging talent:
- Dushmantha Chameera — Senior pacer brings experience
- Matheesha Pathirana — The slinging fast bowler adds X-factor
- Pramod Madushan — Continues to develop in international cricket
- Eshan Malinga — Adds depth to the pace unit
Batting Lineup Largely Unchanged
The batting order remains stable with the return of Kusal Perera, who now exclusively plays T20I cricket for Sri Lanka. Alongside established names like Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and captain Dasun Shanaka, the batting appears well-balanced.
Full Sri Lanka Squad for England T20Is
Captain: Dasun Shanaka
Batters: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake
Allrounders: Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga
Spinners: Maheesh Theekshana
Pace Bowlers: Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga
T20 World Cup Implications
This squad selection carries significant weight as Sri Lanka prepares for the T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7, 2026. Teams have until January 31 to finalize their squads, after which any changes will require ICC approval.
The selectors appear to be using the England series as a final audition for World Cup spots, making performances in the upcoming matches crucial for players on the fringes.
Looking Ahead
Sri Lanka faces a challenging period with the England T20Is serving as important preparation for the global tournament. The blend of experience and recent form in the squad suggests selectors are prioritizing match-winners who can deliver under pressure.
The omission of Thushara and Kamindu Mendis may not be permanent, but it sends a clear message that performances matter, and no place in the squad is guaranteed heading into the World Cup.
