Kusal Mendis rewarded with dual captaincy by Sri Lanka for West Indies tour afte
A New Chapter for Sri Lanka Cricket
In a significant leadership shuffle ahead of their upcoming Caribbean expedition, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially announced that Kusal Mendis rewarded with dual captaincy by Sri Lanka for West Indies tour afte showcasing remarkable form during the latest edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Mendis, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, will take the reins for the ODI and T20I segments of the tour, while Dhananjaya De Silva retains the captaincy for the Test matches.
The Sri Lankan squad is set to depart for the West Indies on May 26th, signaling the start of a comprehensive series that spans across all formats. The tour begins with a three-match ODI series at Sabina Park, scheduled between June 3 and June 8, followed by a three-match T20I series from June 12 to June 15. The journey concludes with a highly anticipated two-match Test series at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, taking place from June 25 to July 7.
The PSL Factor: Why Mendis Earned the Nod
Mendis’s appointment is a direct reflection of his explosive performances for the Peshawar Zalmi. Throughout the PSL 2026 season, he proved to be a linchpin in the batting lineup, accumulating a staggering 550 runs. His consistency was underscored by an impressive average of 55.00 and a strike rate of 168.19, a level of efficiency that selectors believe will translate well to the captaincy role on the international stage.
Squad Reinforcements and Key Returns
The touring party features several pivotal returns, most notably Wanindu Hasaranga. After suffering a left hamstring injury that sidelined him during the T20 World Cup 2026 and the subsequent IPL season, the star spinner is back in the white-ball mix, providing a massive boost to Sri Lanka’s bowling attack. Additionally, Dushmantha Chameera makes a welcome return to the ODI fold, having missed the home series against England earlier this year. Eshan Malinga, who made waves as the top wicket-taker for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2026, has also been included, further bolstering the pace department.
The Depth of the Selection
The selectors have prioritized a blend of experience and emerging talent. Domestic standouts like Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Sonal Dinusha have earned their call-ups, reflecting a merit-based approach to selection. The inclusion of these players highlights the depth currently available in the Sri Lankan domestic circuit, offering fresh faces to complement seasoned campaigners like Dinesh Chandimal and Dasun Shanaka.
Full Squad Announcements
The composition of the squads across all three formats demonstrates a clear strategic vision:
- Test Squad: Pathum Nissanka, Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Kamindu Mendis (VC), Sonal Dinusha, Kusal Mendis, Dhananjaya De Silva (C), Milan Rathnayake, Prabath Jayasuriya, Ramesh Mendis, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Isitha Wijesundara, Kasun Rajitha.
- ODI Squad: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Pavan Rathnayake, Kusal Mendis (C), Janith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis (VC), Milan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan.
- T20I Squad: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Lasith Croospulle, Pavan Rathnayake, Kusal Mendis (C), Kamindu Mendis (VC), Dasun Shanaka, Milan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara.
As the team prepares to face the Caribbean side, the focus remains on adapting quickly to the conditions at Sabina Park and the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. With new leadership at the helm of the white-ball teams, Sri Lanka will be looking to capitalize on their current momentum and solidify their standing in the international arena.
