Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup preparations have suffered a blow, with fast bowler Eshan Malinga likely to miss the tournament after dislocating his shoulder during last night’s match. The injury occurred while Malinga was fielding, and he is scheduled to travel to Colombo for scans to determine the severity.
If confirmed, the dislocation could sideline the pacer for four to six weeks, effectively ending his World Cup campaign. This comes as a setback to Sri Lanka’s pace attack, as Malinga had been part of the broader squad plans.
The 25-member squad still features other specialist pacers Nuwan Tushara and Pramod Madushan, with additional options including Binura Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, and Asitha Fernando. Selectors are expected to reassess the squad once Malinga’s medical evaluations are complete, with final decisions on replacements imminent.
Sri Lanka’s pace plans now face crucial recalibration ahead of the tournament.
Sri Lanka T20 World Cup Squad : Injury update
February 2, 2026 at 1:15 PM
Sri Lanka fast bowler Eshan Malinga is likely to be ruled out of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after dislocating his shoulder during last night’s match.
Malinga sustained the injury while fielding in yesterday’s game and is scheduled to travel to Colombo for scans to assess the extent of the damage. Team sources indicate that if the dislocation is confirmed, the pacer is expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks, effectively ending his World Cup hopes.
The injury comes as a setback for Sri Lanka’s pace plans, with the tournament fast approaching. Malinga had been part of the selectors’ broader plans heading into the World Cup.
Within the 25-member pool named, Nuwan Tushara and Pramod Madushan are the other specialist fast bowlers available.
Selectors also have additional pace options to consider, including Binura Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka and Asitha Fernando, as they reassess the squad composition following Malinga’s injury.
Further clarity on Malinga’s availability is expected after medical evaluations in Colombo.
