Just ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Sri Lanka national cricket team have been forced to make a late change to their squad. Young fast bowler Eshan Malinga has been ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury, with experienced pacer Pramod Madushan approved as his replacement by the ICC Event Technical Committee.
The setback comes at a crucial time for Sri Lanka, who are co-hosting the global tournament and were hoping to field their strongest pace attack in home conditions.
Injury Details: What Happened to Eshan Malinga?
The 25-year-old fast bowler suffered a shoulder dislocation during the second T20I against England on February 1 at Pallekele. The injury occurred while delivering his second over, forcing him to leave the field immediately.
Medical scans later confirmed the severity of the issue, and doctors advised 4–6 weeks of rest, ruling him out of the entire World Cup. Malinga was expected to play an important role with his pace and variations, especially on familiar Sri Lankan pitches.
Replacement Announced: Who is Pramod Madushan?
Pramod Madushan, 32, brings experience and control to the squad. Though not originally selected, his recent international exposure and big-match experience made him a reliable replacement option.
| Player | Age | Format Experience | Key Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pramod Madushan | 32 | 13 ODIs, 8 T20Is | 12 T20I wickets, Economy 8.63 |
Madushan was part of Sri Lanka’s successful 2022 Asia Cup campaign and played a key role in the final against Pakistan. His inclusion adds stability to the bowling unit, even though the team may miss Malinga’s extra pace and attacking intent.
Also see: T20 World Cup 2026 Umpires and Match Referees List
Updated Sri Lanka Squad – T20 World Cup 2026
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Captain | Dasun Shanaka |
| Batters | Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage |
| All-rounders | Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Pawan Ratnayake |
| Bowlers | Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Pramod Madushan |
Losing a young fast bowler just before a major tournament is a setback, especially when playing at home where pace options can make a difference. However, Madushan’s experience in pressure situations gives the team a dependable alternative.
Sri Lanka will now rely heavily on their core pace trio and spin strength, led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, to maintain balance.
As co-hosts, Sri Lanka will be aiming for a strong campaign in front of home fans. While the injury disrupts their plans slightly, the squad still has the experience and match-winners to compete at a high level.
All eyes will now be on how Pramod Madushan adapts quickly and whether Sri Lanka can overcome this early setback to build momentum in the tournament.
