Sri Lanka unveil squad for England white-ball tour, Charith Asalanka named vice captain

Sri Lanka unveiled their squad for the upcoming white-ball tour of England on Wednesday, September 2. Charith Asalanka has been appointed as the vice-captain of the ODI and T20I squads after being sacked from ODI leadership earlier this year, while Kusal Mendis will continue to captain both white-ball teams.

Former vice-captain Kamindu Mendis has been retained in both the squads, while veteran all-rounder Dasun Shanaka marks his return to ODIs for the first time since January 2024. On the other hand, leg-spinner Sachindu Colombage has also earned an opportunity.

Asalanka is one of the four new changes in the T20I squad, along with Lahiru Udara, Janith Liyanage and Tharindu Ratnayake being drafted in as well. Asalanka has marked his return to the T20I side on the back of a prolific run in the Lanka Premier League 2026 (LPL 2026).

He accumulated 385 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 153.38 and was also named Player of the Match in the final, helping Galle Gladiators lift their first LPL title with his 3 for 20.

England vs Sri Lanka series to begin on September 15

Pathum Nissanka, who has been in terrific form lately, will add the firepower at the top of the order once again after recovering from his injury. Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage and Pavan Rathnayake will strengthen the middle-order.

Sri Lanka will play three T20Is and as many ODIs in England, starting with the first T20I in Southampton on September 15.

Sri Lanka’s ODI squad for the England tour: Kusal Mendis (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Sachindu Colombage, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.

Sri Lanka’s T20I squad for the England tour: Kusal Mendis (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Lahiru Udara, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Tharindu Rathnayake, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga, Nuwan Thushara, Binura Fernando.