Why Charith Asalanka is Not Playing Today in SL vs IRE T20 World Cup 2026?

Sri Lanka are set to play their first match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in a Group B clash against Ireland at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Being the co-host of the tournament along with India, SL will have a great advantage of playing in the familiar conditions.

Meanwhile, Ireland decided to bowl first after winning the toss. However, Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka made a surprising announcement during the toss, confirming the absence of veteran all-rounder Charith Asalanka from the playing XI. The decision wasn't expected as Asalanka was one of the best batsmen in the world at one point, however, his form has dipped over the last few months.

Why Charith Asalanka is Not Playing Today?

SL skipper Dasun Shanaka informed during the toss that they are playing with five bowlers and five quality batters. There are already three of the best spinners in the world with the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Dunith Wellalage.

Kamindu Mendis can also come in handy in the middle overs as a part-time spinner, which means there is no place for Asalanka. The Sri Lanka team management has instead gone with the talented cricketer Pavan Rathnayake, who can be considered Charith Asalanka replacement for the SL vs IRE T20 World Cup 2026 match.

With no Asalanka, Sri Lanka's batting line-up looked thin during the match. On a pitch where Ireland bowlers enjoyed during the first half of the innings, a batter like Asalanka would have been useful given his experience. In his absence, Dunith Wellalage was promoted up the batting order, however, he was unable to contribute big runs.

Will Charith Asalanka Play in Upcoming Matches?

Middle order batter Charith Asalanka is one of the most experienced players in Sri Lanka's squad. The left-handed batter has appeared in 74 T20I matches so far in his career and scored 1,426 at an average of 22.63, including six half-centuries. He hasn't bowled much in his career, picking up only seven wickets after appearing in 74 matches. However, he is more than useful as an off-spinner.

Interestingly, Asalanka is currently the captain of Sri Lanka's ODI team. He was the captain of the T20I team too but was removed from the role months before the ongoing ICC event. It would be interesting to see how the Island nation will fill up the absence of an star player in their tournament opener.