Eshan Malinga Ruled Out of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026

By Rohan Mehta / 28.03.2026

Eshan Malinga has been ruled out of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 due to a shoulder injury sustained during a T20I series against England. The 25-year-old cricketer’s absence marks a significant blow for the Sri Lankan team as they prepare for the tournament.

In Malinga’s place, Pramod Madushan has been approved as a replacement in Sri Lanka’s squad. Madushan brings experience to the team, having played 13 One Day Internationals and eight Twenty20 Internationals.

Sri Lanka’s updated squad for the T20 World Cup now includes Madushan, who will join the team as they aim to replicate their 2014 success when they won the T20 World Cup title.

The team is placed in Group B alongside Australia, Ireland, Oman, and Zimbabwe. Sri Lanka’s campaign will kick off against Ireland on February 8 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the extent of Malinga’s injury and his recovery timeline. Observers will be watching closely to see how Madushan performs in this high-stakes tournament.