PAK T20 Tri-Series 2025: Shanaka To Lead SL, After Asalanka’s Illness

A severe viral infection has reportedly caused regular limited-overs captain Charith Asalanka to miss the 2025 T20I Tri-Series in Pakistan, which has caused Sri Lanka's preparations to take an unexpected turn. 

Former captain Dasun Shanaka is likely to be named stand-in captain in his absence, which would be a major leadership comeback for the all-rounder who has continued to be a significant fixture in Sri Lankan white-ball cricket.

Asalanka’s Absence a Major Blow

Over the two years prior, Asalanka has played a key role in Sri Lanka's T20I comeback. He was a vital part of Sri Lanka's strategy going into the 2026 T20 World Cup cycle because of his aggressive middle-order batting, composed leadership under pressure, and developing experience. Still, the medical staff suggested rest to prevent increasing the illness, and team management is putting his health first.

An important preparation is the tri-series, which includes Zimbabwe, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Asalanka will miss out on important match practice by missing the contest, but the board is hopeful that he will fully recover in time for the next task.

Shanaka’s Resurgence and Leadership Credentials

With his poor play, Dasun Shanaka, the former captain of Sri Lanka in Twenty20 Internationals, has remained a member of the national team. Shanaka is still one of the most respected voices in the dressing room because of his tactical insight and capacity to inspire the team under pressure.

This would be Shanaka's first significant leadership position in more than a year if he were given the tri-series skipper. A relatively youthful team with players like Pathum Nissanka, Matheesha Pathirana, and Dunith Wellalage could benefit from his expertise. Likewise, the club management is well aware that when Shanaka assumes leadership responsibilities, his personal batting and bowling performances frequently improve.

Opportunity for Squad Rebalancing

The absence of Asalanka also makes it possible for the batting order to be altered. Young players like Shevon Daniel or Janith Liyanage might get chances in the starting lineup. At the same time, Sadeera Samarawickrama or Kusal Mendis might be elevated to fill the middle-order anchor position.

Sri Lanka may experiment with different bowling combinations due to the tri-series conditions, which are usually spin-friendly yet favor early swing. The team has versatility thanks to the participation of Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Pathirana, although Sri Lanka's pace-spin balance may be affected by Shanaka's captaincy.

 

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