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Asian Games 2026: The Sri Lankan cricket team for the Asian Games Men's Cricket Competition 2026 has been announced. The 15-member squad features an interesting blend of young and experienced players. While resting key T20 International players, the selectors have placed their faith in those who have made an impact in domestic cricket and the Lanka Premier League (LPL). Sahan Arachchige has been entrusted with the team's captaincy.
Recall for Ashen Bandara and Niroshan Dickwella
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The biggest news regarding this squad is the return of Ashen Bandara and Niroshan Dickwella to the T20 International team:
- Ashen Bandara: Bandara played his last international match for Sri Lanka in 2023.
- Niroshan Dickwella: Experienced wicketkeeper-batsman Dickwella has returned to the T20 International squad for the first time since 2021.
However, the recent performances of both players in the 2026 Lanka Premier League (LPL) were not particularly impressive. Bandara scored just 28 runs in three matches for the Colombo Caps, while Dickwella managed to score only 110 runs while playing for the Dambulla Sixers. Despite this, the selectors have prioritized his experience.
4 Uncapped Players Get Maiden T20I Call-Up
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With an eye on future preparations, four new players have earned a spot in the T20 International squad for the first time:
- Sineth Jayawardene
- Sohan de Livera
- Wanuja Sahan
- Garuka Sanketh
The inclusion of these young faces will bring fresh energy to the team.
Strong Spin Attack and Experienced Pace Bowling Unit
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Considering the conditions at the Asian Games, Sri Lanka has bolstered its spin department significantly:
- Spin Attack: Captain Sahan Arachchige is himself an excellent left-arm spin all-rounder (he took 9 wickets in 10 matches during LPL 2026). Additionally, leg-spinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Dushan Hemantha, and Tharindu Ratnayake will spearhead the spin attack.
- Pace Bowling: Experienced bowlers like Nuwan Thushara and Binura Fernando will lead the pace attack, while Chamika Karunaratne will play as an all-rounder.
Direct Quarter-Final Qualification for Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has secured direct entry into the quarter-finals of the 2026 Asian Games. The team will play its first match on September 29 in Nishin.
It is worth noting that Sahan Arachchige also captained Sri Lanka at the previous Asian Games, where the team suffered a defeat against Afghanistan. This time, Captain Arachchige will be aiming to rectify past mistakes and win a medal for the country.
Sri Lanka Full Squad for Asian Games 2026
Sahan Arachchige (Captain), Niroshan Dickwella, Lasith Croospulle, Sineth Jayawardene, Nuwanidu Fernando, Sohan de Livera, Ashen Bandara, Chamika Karunaratne, Tharindu Ratnayake, Vanuja Sahan, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Dushan Hemantha, Nuwan Thushara, Binura Fernando, and Garuka Sanketh.
Also Read: IND vs NZ T20I Series 2026: Squad, Schedule, Venues and Replacement Announced
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