Colombo: Sri Lanka pacer Eshan Malinga has been ruled out of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup due to a shoulder injury and has been replaced by Pramod Madhushan.
Earlier this month, Malinga dislocated his shoulder in the second T20I against England, making him a doubt for the tournament.
The injury occurred when he bowled the first ball after the rain break, clutching his non-balling shoulder during the follow-up before collapsing to the ground. He subsequently missed the third T20I of the series.
The right-arm fast bowler has moved up Sri Lanka’s seam-bowling pecking order following his impressive performance in the 2025 Indian Premier League.
Since making his T20I debut in November last year, Malinga has taken eight wickets in eight matches at an economy rate of 9.41.
His replacement, Madhushan, has played eight T20Is. The fast bowler made his international debut in 2022 and last featured in the form in 2023. He has taken 12 wickets at an economy rate of 8.63.
Sri Lanka begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on February 8 in Colombo. Placed in Group B, they also face Oman, Australia and Zimbabwe as they aim to qualify for the Super Eight.
Sri Lanka Team: Dasun Shanaka (c), Padum Nissanga, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Sarith Asalanga, Janith Liyanake, Pawan Ratnayake, Vanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Vellalake, Mahish Dikshana, Dushmantha Sameera, Pramadasa Bhamira and Madisha Bhamira.