Sri Lanka has named a fresh 17-member squad for their upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh, which kicks off on July 10. The squad welcomes back seasoned campaigners Dasun Shanaka and Chamika Karunaratne, both of whom have made strong cases through recent performances in domestic and franchise cricket. Shanaka, last seen in Sri Lankan colors in July 2024, played a key role as a finisher for Dubai Capitals in their ILT20 title run earlier this year. Karunaratne, too, makes a return after dedicating time solely to Sri Lanka’s domestic circuit, where he consistently impressed with both bat and ball.

One of the biggest talking points is the inclusion of uncapped fast bowler Eshan Malinga, whose breakout IPL 2025 season for Sunrisers Hyderabad saw him bag 13 wickets in just seven games. His sharp bowling and ability to perform under pressure have made him one of Sri Lanka’s most promising pace prospects. With Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara and Binura Fernando also in the mix, along with Shanaka and Karunaratne as seam options, Sri Lanka’s pace attack looks varied and well-equipped.

The spin department remains consistent, led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana. Jeffrey Vandersay provides backup, while Dunith Wellalage, Kamindu Mendis and Charith Asalanka offer all-round spin options. Wellalage’s return adds further balance to the team, following his absence from the T20I squad that toured New Zealand late last year.

Sri Lanka’s batting has solid depth, featuring Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal and Asalanka. The lower order is also bolstered by the likes of Shanaka, Karunaratne, Wellalage and Hasaranga all capable of quick runs and late-innings acceleration.

Among the notable absentees are Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Chamindu Wickramasinghe and Asitha Fernando, who were left out as Sri Lanka continues to experiment with combinations and build toward the 2026 T20 World Cup. The upcoming series, with matches scheduled for July 10, 13 and 16, offers a crucial testing ground for new talent and returning names alike. With a blend of youth, experience and all-around strength, Sri Lanka will be keen to make a strong statement at home.

Sri Lanka's T20I squad

Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Dunith Wellalage, Dasun Shanaka, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Binura Fernando, Eshan Malinga