Eshan Malinga Injured, Pramod Madushan Called into Sri Lankas World Cup Squad

Sri Lanka suffered a major setback ahead of the T20 World Cup as their key fast bowler Eshan Malingawas ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury on Saturday. Just two days later, Sri Lanka will play their opening match against Ireland at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

Malinga had recently played in a three-match T20I series against England. However, he sustained the injury on the first ball after play resumed following a rain break in the second match.

Following Malinga’s injury, Sri Lanka Cricket announced that Pramod Madushan would replace him in the squad. Madushan has played 13 ODIs and 8 T20Is. He impressed recently while representing Sri Lanka A in the Asia Cup Rising Stars tournament, taking four wickets in two matches.

The 2014 champions will begin their campaign against Ireland on February 8. Australia, Oman, and Zimbabwe are also part of their group. Led by captain Dasun Shanaka, the team hopes to replicate their past success.

In other squad changes, Kamindu Mendis has been recalled, while Dhananjaya de Silva has been left out.

Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup 2026 Squad:

Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Pramod Madushan