Sri Lankan Cricket Team (Source: AFP)
Sri Lanka have suffered a major setback ahead of their three-match T20I series against England, with two star players ruled out due to injuries. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed that both players are still undergoing rehabilitation and will not be fit in time for the upcoming series.
Both Kusal Mendis and Binura Fernando sustained injuries during the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026. Mendis is recovering from a right hamstring injury, while left-arm fast bowler Fernando is undergoing treatment for a back problem.
It is important to mention that the much-awaited Sri Lanka tour of England 2026 consists of three T20Is and ODIs. The first T20I of the series will start on September 15 at The Rose Bowl, Southampton.
The second and the third T20Is are scheduled for September 17 and 19, respectively. The ODI series will begin on September 22.
Also Read: Sri Lanka Squads For England ODIs T20Is Announced, Big Names Return From Injury
Sri Lanka Name Replacements For Injured Players
In Kusal Mendis' absence, Sri Lanka have included Pavan Rathnayake in the T20I squad. Fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka has been called up as Binura Fernando’s replacement.
“JUST IN: Kusal Mendis, who is recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during the LPL, has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against England. Charith Asalanka, who's back in the T20I squad, will lead Sri Lanka in Mendis' absence,” as per Cricinfo.
It is important to mention that, as SL captain Kusal Mendis has been ruled out vs England, Charith Asalanka will lead the side in his absence.
Sri Lanka's Updated Squad For England T20Is
Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Lahiru Udara, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Tharindu Rathnayake, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga, Nuwan Thushara, Dilshan Madushanka, Pavan Rathnayake.
Kusal Mendis Injury Update: Full Timeline
Kusal Mendis is still recovering from a right hamstring issue and has not yet regained full fitness for the SL vs ENG T20Is. He has been away from cricket since July.
- July 19: Mendis picked up the injury on July 19 while playing for the Colombo Kaps against the Kandy Royals in the LPL. He hurt his right hamstring while trying to complete a run.
- July 22: Just three days later, it was confirmed that Mendis would not play any more matches in the 2026 LPL.
- August: His recovery was still incomplete, ruling him out of Sri Lanka's home Test matches against India.
- September 4: Sri Lanka confirmed on September 4 that Mendis would also miss the T20I portion of the England tour.
Will Kusal Mendis Play SL vs ENG ODIs?
It is worth noting that Kusal Mendis's fitness will be closely watched, and whether he will play in the SL vs ENG ODIs has not been decided as of now.
The team will continue to monitor his recovery before making a final call. His return will depend on how well he responds to rehabilitation and whether he reaches the required fitness level.
