Table of Contents
Sri Lanka have unveiled a well-rounded squad for the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026, placing their faith in a new generation of talent as they look to make a deep run in the tournament. The team will be captained by Vimath Dinsara, with Kavija Gamage appointed as vice-captain, as Sri Lanka aim to build on their encouraging showing in the previous edition. The marquee youth event gets underway on January 15, with matches set to be played across Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Vimath Dinsara handed leadership responsibility
Dinsara has been entrusted with the captaincy after impressing selectors with his composure and consistency at the junior level. Known for his solid batting technique and calm presence in pressure situations, Dinsara is expected to anchor the innings while also leading from the front tactically. His deputy, Gamage, adds further stability to the leadership group, offering flexibility as both a batter and an all-round option.
Batting depth and all-round strength
Sri Lanka’s squad reflects a clear emphasis on batting depth and versatility. Alongside Dinsara and Gamage, Dimantha Mahavithana is another batter expected to play a key role at the top and middle order. The selectors have also placed considerable trust in a group of multi-skilled all-rounders, including Viran Chamuditha, Chamika Heentigala, and Gamage, who provide balance to the side with their ability to contribute in more than one discipline.
This all-round depth is likely to be crucial in the demanding conditions of Zimbabwe and Namibia, where teams often need to adapt quickly to varying pitches and weather. Sri Lanka’s think tank appears keen to avoid over-reliance on specialists, instead opting for players who can adjust their roles based on match situations.
Also READ: Australia name strong squad for U19 World Cup 2026, Oliver Peake to lead
Focus on adaptability and conditions
Sri Lanka’s approach for the 2026 edition is shaped heavily by lessons learned from the previous Under-19 World Cup in South Africa, where they progressed to the Super 6s stage. That campaign highlighted the importance of flexibility, particularly in overseas conditions. With venues spread across two countries, adaptability has once again become a central theme in selection.
The bowling unit features a mix of pace and spin options, with players like Sethmika Seneviratne, Kugathas Mathulan, Rasith Nimsara, and Vigneshwaran Akash expected to shoulder responsibility across different phases of the game. Their ability to exploit conditions early and control the middle overs could define Sri Lanka’s campaign.
Sri Lanka have been drawn into Group A, where they will face a stern test against defending champions Australia, along with Ireland and Japan. The group promises a blend of traditional powerhouses and emerging cricket nations, making consistency vital from the outset.
Sri Lanka will begin their tournament on January 17 against Japan, a fixture that offers an early opportunity to settle nerves and build momentum. However, clashes against Australia and Ireland are expected to provide a clearer picture of the team’s title credentials.
Sri Lanka U19 World Cup 2026 squad
Vimath Dinsara (c), Kavija Gamage (vc), Dimantha Mahavithana, Viran Chamuditha, Dulnith Sigera, Chamika Heentigala, Adam Hilmy, Chamarindu Nethsara, Sethmika Seneviratne, Kugathas Mathulan, Rasith Nimsara, Vigneshwaran Akash, Jeewantha Sriram, Senuja Wekunagoda, Malintha Silva
