Sri Lanka have been dealt a major blow ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, as fast bowler Eshan Malinga has suffered a shoulder injury just weeks before the marquee. The injury happened during the second T20I against England and has cast serious doubt over his availability for the World Cup, which will be hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
How Eshan Malinga got injured?
Malinga injured his left shoulder in the eighth over of England’s innings. After delivering a waist-high no-ball, he immediately grabbed his shoulder and fell to the ground. He was unable to continue bowling and left the field shortly after. The pacer bowled just 1.2 overs, conceding six runs without taking a wicket, and was ruled out of the final match of the series.
Sri Lanka Cricket on Eshan Malinga's injury
Sri Lanka Cricket later confirmed that Malinga would return to Colombo on February 2 to undergo an MRI scan. The scan will assess the extent of the injury, following which a decision will be made on his participation in the World Cup. No replacement was announced for the final T20 against England.
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Although Sri Lanka are yet to officially announce their T20 World Cup squad, Malinga is part of the preliminary group, making the timing of the injury a major concern for the hosts.
The 24-year-old has become a key member of Sri Lanka’s bowling unit over the past year. Since making his T20I debut in November 2025, he has played eight matches and taken eight wickets at a strike rate of 17.1.
Will Sri Lanka able to add Eshan Malinga's replacement?
If Malinga is ruled out of the tournament, Sri Lanka Cricket will need approval from the ICC to name a replacement. The deadline for squad changes passed on January 31, meaning any further changes will require special permission from the governing body.
Who will be potential replacements for Eshan Malinga?
Potential replacements include fast bowlers Pramod Madushan and Nuwan Thushara, while Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka are also options.
Sri Lanka Cricket later confirmed that Malinga had suffered a shoulder dislocation during Sunday’s match and said more clarity would emerge after the MRI scan and medical assessment.
Sri Lanka will conclude their T20 series against England on Tuesday before beginning their T20 World Cup campaign at home against Ireland in Colombo on Sunday.