Overview
- Chief selector Pramodya Wickramasinghe said Shanaka will lead through the tournament following discussions with head coach Sanath Jayasuriya and high-performance head Jerome Jayaratne.
- Selectors cited Asalanka’s lean 2025 returns — 156 runs from 12 innings at a strike rate of about 122 — and Shanaka’s experience in three previous World Cups as reasons for the change.
- The announced 25-player list matches the previous panel’s choices, with management signaling clearer role definitions and fitness targets for accountability.
- Wicketkeeper-batter Niroshan Dickwella was recalled with potential roles as opener, reserve keeper or middle-order option.
- Sri Lanka were grouped with Australia, Ireland, Zimbabwe and Oman for the event starting February 7, which they will co-host with India.