Sri Lanka also unveiled a new ODI and T20I captain, namely Kusal Mendis, in its new squad to face the West Indies for its all-format tour.
The move itself is a significant change in the leadership of Sri Lankan cricket. Kusal Mendis replaces Dasun Shanaka as the limited-overs captain while Charith Asalanka will assume the role in ODIs. Meanwhile, Dhananjaya de Silva will lead the Test side, which will be split-capacity in the remaining formats.
The decision appears to be a timely one for Sri Lanka, who need to regain momentum following a disappointing stint at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. In terms of their white-ball plans, it looks as though the board is going for steady hands, experience and stability.
Kusal Mendis is an experienced international professional. With 73 Tests, 154 ODIs and 106 T20Is, he’s one of the most experienced players in the current squad. Pressure situations and consistency are considered the reasons for his appointment.
He’ll face his first test as a full-time white-ball captain this time around, on the upcoming tour of the West Indies. The series kicks off at Sabina Park in Kingston from June 3 to 8 with Three-match ODI series. Leadership and adaptability will be tested in the Caribbean conditions, particularly for a team in transition.
The selectors are hopeful that this change of guard would add clarity and performance in limited-overs cricket. In recent years, Sri Lanka have produced some good results, but it was a concern that they weren’t consistent.
Kusal Mendis takes over the reins and the emphasis will be on establishing a more cohesive team identity and match-winning in foreign land.
