Colombo: Test captain Dhananjaya de Silva was notably recalled as Sri Lanka on Tuesday announced its squad for the three-match T20I series against Pakistan starting Wednesday in Dambulla.
All-rounder De Silva, who has not played a T20 since June 2024 against the Netherlands, returns as Sri Lanka finalize their preparations ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup co-hosting India next month.
Dasun Shanaka will lead the 18-member team. Pakistan and Sri Lanka are scheduled to clash on January 7, 9 and 11, with all matches scheduled at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RDICS).
The series has added significance as a key warm-up ahead of the T20 World Cup from February 7 to March 8.
Historically, the two teams have met in 27 T20Is in which Pakistan has won 16 encounters and Sri Lanka 11.
Sri Lanka T20 Team:
Dasun Shanaka (catch), Pathum Nissanga, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya De Silva, Sarith Asalanga, Janith Lienake, Kamindu Mendis, Vanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Vellalake, Mahish Dikshana, Dushan Hemantha, D Traveen Bhashana Madthavantha, D Traveen Bhashana Madhavantha Tushara and Eshaan Malinga.