Sri Lanka has recalled Test captain Dhananjaya de Silva to the T20I squad for a crucial three-match home series against Pakistan as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The all-rounder, who last played a T20I in June 2024 against the Netherlands, returns to the shortest format at a critical time as Sri Lanka co-hosts the global tournament with India next month.

Dhananjaya returns after 18-month T20I absence

All-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva has not played a T20I since June 2024 when Sri Lanka faced the Netherlands. His recall to the 18-member squad signals the team management’s intent to strengthen their middle order and provide additional spin options ahead of the World Cup.

The Test captain’s experience and ability to bat in the middle order while offering handy off-spin bowling makes him a valuable asset as Sri Lanka fine-tunes their combinations before the global event.

Dasun Shanaka to lead squad

The squad will be led by Dasun Shanaka as Sri Lanka gears up for the T20 World Cup next month, which they co-host with India. The series against Pakistan provides the perfect opportunity for the team to test their strategies and assess player form in home conditions.

Series schedule and venue

The three-match series kicks off on Wednesday, January 8, 2026, with the second match scheduled for Friday, January 10, and the final encounter on Sunday, January 12. All three matches will be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Dambulla.

The series represents Sri Lanka’s final preparation before they enter the T20 World Cup as co-hosts, adding extra pressure and expectation on the island nation to perform well in front of their home crowds.

Sri Lanka’s 18-member T20I squad