Sri Lanka is gearing up to wrap up its group stage matches in the T20 World Cup 2026, facing off against Zimbabwe on February 19 at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo. In a recent pre-match press conference, batting consultant Vikram Rathour delivered unfortunate news regarding Matheesha Pathirana, confirming that the talented slinger will miss the remainder of the tournament due to injury.
“He has been declared unfit for the rest of the tournament, and I believe the news will circulate soon,” Rathour stated. The management is still deliberating on a suitable replacement for Pathirana, with Rathour adding, “As far as the replacement is concerned, discussions are ongoing.”
Pathirana sustained his injury during a group stage match against Australia, where he appeared to grimace while clutching his left leg. Following the incident, he exited the field and did not return to bowl that innings.
Despite his absence, Sri Lanka triumphed over Australia by eight wickets at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, securing their spot in the ‘Super 8’ stage of the tournament. The ‘Super 8’ phase is set to commence on February 21, with Sri Lanka placed in Group 2 alongside England and New Zealand, while the fourth team is yet to qualify.
Under the leadership of Dasun Shanaka, Sri Lanka will kick off their ‘Super 8’ campaign against England on February 22 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Their second match will be against New Zealand on February 25 at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, with their third opponent still to be determined.
The grand finale of the T20 World Cup 2026 is slated for March 8, though the venue has yet to be confirmed.
Sri Lanka’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 includes: Kusal Perera (WK), Dushmantha Chameera, Dasun Shanaka (C), Kusal Mendis (WK), Dushan Hemantha, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pramod Madushan, Pathum Nissanka, Maheesh Theekshana, Kamil Mishara, Dunith Wellalage, Pavan Rathnayake, and Matheesha Pathirana.
(With ANI Inputs)