LPL 2026: Dambulla Sixers’ predicted playing XI for Match 2 vs Kandy Royals

The Dambulla Sixers (DS) will begin their Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 campaign with a clash against the Kandy Royals (KR) at the Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo, on Saturday, July 18. Led by experienced wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Chandimal, the Sixers have assembled a balanced squad featuring proven international performers and quality local talent.

With explosive batters, dependable all-rounders, and a formidable bowling attack, Dambulla will be aiming to make a winning start to the tournament.

Top-order: Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Sahibzada Farhan, Dinesh Chandimal (c)

Niroshan Dickwella is expected to open the innings and provide an aggressive start in the Powerplay. His attacking intent will be crucial in taking advantage of the fielding restrictions.

Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan is likely to partner with Dickwella at the top. The right-handed batter has been in impressive T20 form and will look to carry that momentum into the LPL.

Captain Dinesh Chandimal is expected to bat at No. 3. His experience and ability to anchor the innings while accelerating when required make him one of the key batters in the lineup.

Middle-order: Reeza Hendricks, Gulbadin Naib, Ramesh Mendis, Gayana Weerasinghe

South African batter Reeza Hendricks adds stability and class to the middle order. He is capable of building partnerships and finishing innings strongly.

Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadin Naib brings valuable balance to the side with his powerful batting and useful medium pace. He can contribute in all three departments of the game.

Ramesh Mendis is expected to play the role of a spin-bowling all-rounder. Apart from his off-spin, he can chip in with important runs in the lower middle order.

Gayana Weerasinghe provides another all-round option and strengthens Dambulla’s batting depth while offering an additional bowling choice.

Bowlers: Maheesh Theekshana, Akila Dananjaya, Dushmantha Chameera, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Sri Lanka spinner Maheesh Theekshana will lead the spin attack with his mystery variations and ability to bowl in different phases of the innings.

Akila Dananjaya is expected to partner him, giving Dambulla a strong spin duo capable of troubling batters in the middle overs.

The pace attack will be spearheaded by Dushmantha Chameera, whose extra pace and experience make him a genuine wicket-taking option.

Afghanistan left-arm seamer Fazalhaq Farooqi completes the bowling unit. Known for his swing with the new ball and effective death bowling, Farooqi will be one of Dambulla’s biggest weapons in their tournament opener.