Sri Lanka To ICC T20 World Cup 2026 There has been a big blow before, because the young fast bowler Ishaan Malinga Has been ruled out of the tournament due to shoulder injury. The development comes at an unfortunate time for the Sri Lankan team, which had been relying on Malinga’s pace and wicket-taking ability to strengthen their bowling attack. The injury, suffered during the second T20I against England on February 1, has cast a shadow over Sri Lanka’s preparations with just days left for the major event to begin.

Shoulder injury rules Ishan Malinga out of T20 World Cup 2026

Malinga suffered the injury in dramatic fashion after the match was interrupted by rain. While bowling the first ball after the break, the fast bowler immediately caught his non-bowling shoulder and collapsed during the follow-through after releasing the ball. He was taken off the field and subsequently missed the third T20I of the series. Medical tests later confirmed that the injury would rule him out of the entire T20 World Cup campaign, dealing a significant blow to Sri Lanka’s ambitions.

Replacement announced for Malinga

In response to Malinga’s unfortunate withdrawal, Sri Lanka Cricket Pramod Madushan Has been announced as his replacement in the 15-man squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Madushan, who was left out of the squad announced earlier this month, is now getting a second opportunity to play on the global stage.

The pollsters have chosen Madushan as a similar replacement, noting his ability to bowl at pace and operate effectively in the powerplay and middle overs. Although he has not played regularly in the T20I setup recently, Madushan’s statistics remain encouraging. In eight T20Is, he has taken 12 wickets and has an economy rate of 8.63, which is significantly better than Malinga’s 9.41 in the same number of matches.

For Madushan, this call-up is an opportunity to re-establish himself in the national team and make an impact in a high-pressure tournament. His return adds experience and depth to Sri Lanka’s fast bowling assets at a time when adaptation will be crucial.

Changes in bowling attack, Sri Lanka finalize the squad

Malinga’s absence is particularly disappointing, as he had recently risen up Sri Lanka’s fast bowling hierarchy. The young fast bowler had earned the promotion after impressing during the 2025 IPL, where his raw pace and attacking intent was attracting attention. After making his T20I debut in November last year, he took eight wickets in eight matches, and emerged as one of Sri Lanka’s exciting fast bowling prospects.

Now with the addition of Madushan, Sri Lanka’s fast bowling attack Maithisha Pathirana And Dushmantha Chameera Will be led by , who offers a blend of pace and experience. 2014 champions, Sri Lanka begin their T20 World Cup 2026 journey ireland Colombo against R. Will do it on February 8 at Premadasa Stadium. Australia, Oman And zimbabwe complete their group, making continuity and team balance vital to progress.

Sri Lanka’s squad (updated) for T20 World Cup 2026:Dasun Shanaka (a), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pawan Rathnayak, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Velalage, Mahesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Mathisha Pathirana, Pramod Madushan.

See also: SL vs ENG [WATCH]: Maheesh Theekshana dismisses Jos Buttler with a brilliant ball and celebrates his famous performance in the third T20I