Sri Lanka Consider Captaincy Change as Charith Asalanka’s Form Comes Under Review Ahead of T20 World Cup

Sri Lanka’s selectors are weighing up a potential change in T20I captaincy less than two months before the country hosts the T20 World Cup. Although no formal decision has been made, chief selector Upul Tharanga confirmed that the panel is actively discussing possible adjustments to the leadership group.

The discussions have been triggered largely by Charith Asalanka’s extended dip in T20I form. His modest returns in recent months, combined with a long-standing struggle to establish himself as a consistent performer, have intensified pressure on his role. Asalanka has managed just 156 runs in 12 innings in 2025 at a strike rate of 122, while his overall T20I strike rate sits at 126 from 68 innings. Under his captaincy, Sri Lanka have recorded 11 wins and 14 losses.

Asalanka’s early departure from Pakistan ahead of the ongoing tri-series added to the uncertainty. Team management attributed his return to a viral fever and associated discomfort, with medical staff unable to predict when he would recover. His exit, however, also sparked speculation in the local media, including suggestions that he had opposed remaining in Pakistan following a suicide bombing in Islamabad. This fuelled theories that his withdrawal was related to internal disagreements rather than illness, though selectors have maintained that health concerns were the only factor.

The selectors had begun considering leadership alternatives even before the Pakistan tour. As part of that planning, former captain Dasun Shanaka was named vice-captain for the series to provide an additional option should a change become necessary. Despite this, Asalanka remains officially listed as Sri Lanka’s T20I captain, and no final call on his future has yet been taken.

Sri Lanka’s inconsistent middle-order performances have also contributed to the ongoing review process. With Asalanka unavailable due to illness, selectors opted to replace him temporarily to maintain balance within the squad.

Despite the uncertainty around the captaincy, Asalanka remains firmly in Sri Lanka’s World Cup plans as a batter. The selectors believe his experience and ability to influence matches from the middle order make him a valuable asset for the tournament. A final decision regarding the leadership is expected after the completion of the tri-series in Pakistan, with limited time remaining before the World Cup begins.