T20 World Cup 2026 – 3 Sri Lanka players to watch for in PAK vs SL

Pakistan square off against Sri Lanka in match No. 50 of the ongoing T20 World Cup at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on Saturday, February 28.

Sri Lanka’s chances of progressing to the semifinal ended following their defeats in their first two Super 8 games to England and New Zealand. Meanwhile, Pakistan have a slim chance of making the knockouts and need a massive win to go through.

Here are three Sri Lankan players to watch out for in Match No.50 of the T20 World Cup 2026:

3. Kusal Mendis

Kusal Mendis has aggregated 197 runs in six innings at an average of 39.40 and a strike rate of 114.54. The wicketkeeper-batter has not scored his runs rapidly, but has contributed with three half-centuries. The pitches in Sri Lanka have not been too conducive to stroke play, but still, Mendis’ strike rate looks a bit too alarming.

However, he is one of the most experienced players in the Sri Lankan line-up. Instead of trying to dig deep, Mendis could be more dangerous if he plays his naturally aggressive game and takes the bowlers on inside the power play.

2. Pathum Nissanka

Pathum Nissanka registered a golden duck in the last game against New Zealand. However, he is still the leading run-getter for Sri Lanka in the tournament. In six innings, he has amassed 208 runs at an average of 41.60 and a strike rate of 152.95. The right-handed batter has one fifty and one century to his name.

Nissanka will look to anchor the innings against Pakistan and allow the big hitters in the batting line-up to play their game freely without worrying too much about their wickets.

1. Maheesh Theekshana

Maheesh Theekshana’s performance in the 2026 T20 World Cup has been one of the rare silver linings for Sri Lanka. The mystery spinner has accounted for 11 wickets in six matches at an average of 15.36 and a strike rate of 12.82. Theekshana has an economy rate of 7.19, and his best figures of 3/23 came against Ireland in Sri Lanka’s first game of the campaign.
The experienced spinner will have an important role to play at various stages of the Pakistan innings. It will be interesting to see how Dasun Shanaka uses Theekshana’s four overs.

Sri Lankan squad for T20 World Cup 2026:

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Charith Asalanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (C), Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Kamil Mishara, Janith Liyanage, Pramod Madushan, Kusal Perera.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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