Sri Lanka’s captain Dasun Shanaka has encouraged his team to concentrate on a step-by-step approach as they gear up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, despite facing criticism from fans for recent poor performances, including a series loss to England at home. Shanaka emphasized the significance of experience, team accountability, and maintaining the country’s strong record in ICC events held on home turf.
Addressing the media in Colombo, Shanaka acknowledged the team’s positive preparations despite mixed results, particularly praising the bowling unit’s performance, including Chameera, Pathirana, and Theekshana. The recent defeat to England in the T20I series has raised concerns about Sri Lanka’s readiness for the upcoming World Cup.
Following the series loss to England, fans expressed frustration, calling for changes within the team and the selection committee. Shanaka acknowledged the batting unit’s struggles during the England series but expressed faith in the squad’s collective experience. With the T20 World Cup being hosted in Sri Lanka after 14 years, Shanaka highlighted the team’s focus on the opening round, starting with a match against Ireland at the R. Premadasa Stadium.
Emphasizing the importance of batting consistency, Shanaka stressed the need for top-order players to anchor the innings. Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s successful history in ICC tournaments hosted at home, Shanaka emphasized the team’s responsibility to maintain that legacy through collective effort. Shanaka attributed the team’s past inability to reach the semi-finals to limited player experience but expressed confidence in a different outcome in 2026.
Providing an update on injured pacer Eshan Malinga, Shanaka mentioned that his condition is being evaluated, with a detailed report expected soon. Sri Lanka is set to kick off their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Ireland at the R. Premadasa Stadium on February 8.
