Sri Lanka’s classy top-order batter Pathum Nissanka has been signed by the Delhi Capitals (DC) ahead of the IPL 2026 season for ₹4 Crore. This signing marks an exciting phase for both Nissanka’s IPL journey and DC’s batting lineup, as they look to strengthen their top order with international experience and consistent run-scoring ability.
Nissanka’s strong performance across formats and especially his high-impact T20 innings make him one of the most valuable overseas batters in this IPL season.
IPL 2026 Price & Team
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| IPL 2026 Team | Delhi Capitals (DC) |
| IPL 2026 Price | ₹4 Crore |
| Role | Top-order Batter |
| Batting Style | Right-Handed |
| Nationality | Sri Lankan |
Player Overview
Pathum Nissanka Silva was born on 18 May 1998 in Galle, Sri Lanka. A stylish right-handed top-order batter, Nissanka is known for his technique, commitment, and ability to score big runs across all formats of international cricket. His calm temperament and ability to build innings make him a strong fit for the opening or one-down slot in T20 leagues and especially in the IPL.
Nissanka has already established himself as one of Sri Lanka’s most dependable batters — scoring consistently in Tests, ODIs and T20Is — and now brings that class to the IPL.
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IPL Career Summary
Pathum Nissanka’s IPL journey may be just starting with DC in 2026, but his international record shows he has the skill and consistency to be a strong contributor:
| Category | Record (Overall) |
|---|---|
| IPL 2026 Team | Delhi Capitals |
| IPL Matches | Yet to debut (2026) |
| Role | Top-Order Batter |
| Expected Impact | High |
(Note: Nissanka hasn’t played an IPL match before 2026, so his record will begin with this season.)
International Career at a Glance
Nissanka’s international numbers show his class and run-scoring consistency:
Test Cricket
| Matches | Runs | Highest Score | Average | 100s | 50s | Fours | Sixes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 | 1305 | 187 | 45.00 | 4 | 7 | 150 | 5 |
One-Day Internationals (ODIs)
| Matches | Runs | Highest Score | Average | 100s | 50s | Fours | Sixes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 74 | 2823 | 210* | 40.91 | 7 | 17 | 358 | 32 |
T20 Internationals
| Matches | Runs | Highest Score | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s | Fours | Sixes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 79 | 2345 | 107 | 31.68 | 126.96 | 1 | 18 | 239 | 64 |
These stats reflect his ability to score across formats and adapt to different conditions.
Recent International Performances
Nissanka’s recent T20I performances have been impactful and consistent:
| Matches | Runs (Balls) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| vs Pakistan | 11 (7) | T20I, Nov 29, 2025 |
| vs Pakistan | 8 (7) | T20I, Nov 27, 2025 |
| vs Zimbabwe | 98* (58) | T20I, Nov 25, 2025 |
| vs Pakistan | 17 (23) | T20I, Nov 22, 2025 |
| vs Zimbabwe | 0 (5) | T20I, Nov 20, 2025 |
His unbeaten 98 off 58 balls* was a standout performance, showcasing his ability to play big innings in T20 cricket.
Strengths & Playing Style
Classy Top-Order Technique
Nissanka’s textbook batting technique allows him to play various bowling attacks with ease. His ability to handle pace and spin has been evident across international matches.
Run Accumulation & Strike Rotation
He scores at a healthy strike rate in T20s while also accumulating runs consistently in longer formats.
Boundary Hitting
With over 239 fours and 64 sixes in T20Is, his attacking game makes him dangerous early and in the middle overs.
Composure Under Pressure
Nissanka has shown maturity and patience to build innings even in tough situations — a vital quality for any IPL top-order batter.
Why DC Picked Pathum Nissanka
Delhi Capitals likely targeted Nissanka for several reasons:
- Strong top-order presence with international experience
- Consistency across formats making him reliable
- T20 adaptability with high strike rate potential
- Balance to the batting unit ahead of middle overs
- Big innings capability against quality bowling attacks
His inclusion is expected to provide stability and firepower at the top for DC.
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Expected Role in IPL 2026
Opening Batter or No. 3
Nissanka can anchor the innings and build partnerships.
Run Accumulator
His focus will be to rotate strike and build a solid foundation.
Big-Hit Potential
Against spinners or pacers, he can accelerate the run rate when required.
Match Defining Innings
Given his experience and temperament, he can play match-winning knocks for DC.
Conclusion
Pathum Nissanka’s arrival in the IPL with Delhi Capitals for ₹4 Crore ahead of the 2026 season is a major coup for both player and franchise. His international track record proves he has the skill, temperament, and consistency to succeed on big stages.
With his blend of classical technique and aggressive mindset, Nissanka looks set to be one of the key overseas picks of IPL 2026 — a top-order batter capable of making early inroads or finishing strong innings for DC. Watch out as he begins his IPL journey and looks to leave a lasting impact on Indian Premier League cricket.
