Sri Lanka enters the Asia Cup 2025 as defending champions in the T20 format. Under the captaincy of Charith Asalanka, the team will look to replicate their success from 2022 when they last won the Asia Cup in this format. With a balanced mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talent, Sri Lanka is well-prepared for the tournament that kicks off on September 9, 2025, in the UAE.
Sri Lanka’s Squad Overview
Sri Lanka’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025 is a blend of reliability and youth. The return of Wanindu Hasaranga from injury and the inclusion of Matheesha Pathirana boosts their bowling attack, while their top order has been one of the most consistent in Asia in recent months.
Sri Lanka’s Probable Playing XI for Asia Cup 2025
| Position | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pathum Nissanka | Right-hand opener, consistent scorer |
| 2 | Kusal Mendis (wk) | Aggressive opener & wicketkeeper |
| 3 | Kusal Perera | Left-hand top-order batter, attacking option |
| 4 | Nuwanidu Fernando | Young middle-order batter |
| 5 | Charith Asalanka (c) | Captain & stabilizer in the middle order |
| 6 | Kamindu Mendis | Versatile all-rounder, can bowl both off-spin & left-arm spin |
| 7 | Dasun Shanaka | Power-hitting all-rounder, extra pace option |
| 8 | Wanindu Hasaranga | Star leg-spinner, lower-order hitter |
| 9 | Maheesh Theekshana | Mystery spinner, Powerplay option |
| 10 | Nuwan Thushara | Sling-action pacer, death-over specialist |
| 11 | Matheesha Pathirana | Express pace bowler, death-over weapon |
Alternates: Chamika Karunaratne (all-rounder), Dunith Wellalage (spin-bowling all-rounder), Binura Fernando (left-arm seamer), Kamil Mishara (backup batter).
Read more: Sri Lanka Asia cup 2025 Complete Squad
Strengths of Sri Lanka
1. Solid Top-Order
Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis are in great form. Nissanka’s average of 30+ with a strike rate around 140 has given Sri Lanka stability in the Powerplay. Kusal Perera adds the left-handed option to keep opposition bowlers on their toes.
2. All-Rounder Depth
Kamindu Mendis and Dasun Shanaka offer flexibility with both bat and ball. Shanaka has been recalled in 2025 and provides a big-hitting option at No. 6 or 7.
3. Strong Spin Attack
Wanindu Hasaranga leads the spin unit, supported by Maheesh Theekshana. If needed, Dunith Wellalage or Kamindu Mendis can provide additional spin options, giving Sri Lanka variety in UAE conditions.
4. Pace Power
Matheesha Pathirana’s return is a big boost. Alongside Nuwan Thushara and Dushmantha Chameera (if included), Sri Lanka has an aggressive pace attack capable of taking early wickets and defending totals.
Weaknesses to Address
- No Proven No. 7 Batter: Sri Lanka lacks a specialist batting all-rounder at No. 7, meaning there is pressure on Shanaka and Kamindu to deliver with the bat.
- Inexperience in Middle-Order Options: Nuwanidu Fernando and Kamil Mishara are talented but inexperienced at the international level.
- Kusal Perera’s Consistency: While explosive, Perera’s recent form has been patchy. His performance could heavily influence Sri Lanka’s campaign.
Main Players to Watch
- Pathum Nissanka: Consistent at the top, expected to set the tone in Powerplays.
- Charith Asalanka: Calm leader and middle-order anchor.
- Wanindu Hasaranga: Sri Lanka’s biggest match-winner with both bat and ball.
- Matheesha Pathirana: Death-over specialist who could be a game-changer on UAE pitches.
Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup 2025 Schedule
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept 13 | Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh | Abu Dhabi (Sheikh Zayed Stadium) | 8:00 PM |
| Sept 15 | Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong | Dubai International Stadium | 8:00 PM |
| Sept 18 | Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan | Abu Dhabi (Sheikh Zayed Stadium) | 8:00 PM |
If Sri Lanka qualifies, they will feature in the Super Four stage (Sept 20–26), followed by the final on Sept 28 in Dubai.
Sri Lanka is tipped by many analysts, including former cricketers, to at least reach the Super Four stage, with a potential shot at the final if key players perform. Aakash Chopra even predicted a possible India vs Sri Lanka final if both sides play to their potential.
Read more: – Sri Lanka Cricket Schedule
Conclusion
Sri Lanka might not be filled with “superstars,” but their combination of experienced campaigners and young talent makes them a dangerous side in the Asia Cup 2025. The team’s success will rely on their top order’s consistency, Hasaranga’s impact with the ball, and Pathirana’s effectiveness at the death.
With a balanced side and the momentum of being defending T20 champions, Sri Lanka will aim not just for the Super Four but for a place in the Asia Cup 2025 final — and possibly lift the trophy once again.
