Wed. Jul 30th, 2025

Eshan Malinga Earns Maiden T20I Call-Up for Sri Lanka Against Bangladesh

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced a fresh-looking 17-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, set to begin on July 10. The major headline from the squad announcement is the maiden call-up of uncapped pacer Eshan Malinga, whose rise through domestic ranks and an impressive IPL stint has earned him his first opportunity at the international level.

The squad also marks the return of seasoned campaigners Dasun Shanaka, Chamika Karunaratne, and Dunith Wellalage, as Sri Lanka begins laying the groundwork for the T20 World Cup later this year. Under the leadership of Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka aims to strike the right balance of youth and experience in what promises to be a competitive series against Bangladesh.

Eshan Malinga’s Meteoric Rise

Eshan Malinga’s inclusion is a testament to his consistent performances in both domestic cricket and franchise leagues. The 23-year-old right-arm pacer has 40 wickets in 27 T20 matches at an average of 18.22. His ability to bowl at pace with clever variations has earned him comparisons to Sri Lanka’s legendary fast bowlers.

In the IPL earlier this year, representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, Malinga showcased his potential by picking up seven wickets in 13 matches. While his numbers might not jump off the page, his strike rate of 12.31 highlighted his knack for breaking partnerships and bowling at crucial junctures. His debut will be closely watched as Sri Lanka looks to bolster its pace stocks for the future.

Veterans Shanaka, Karunaratne, and Wellalage Return

After missing Sri Lanka’s last T20I outing against New Zealand, former captain Dasun Shanaka returns to the squad. Known for his big-hitting lower down the order and handy seam bowling, Shanaka’s experience will be vital in crunch situations.

Chamika Karunaratne, the energetic all-rounder, also makes his comeback. His ability to contribute in all departments makes him a valuable asset in the shortest format. Spinner Dunith Wellalage, who has grown in stature over the past year, will add depth to the spin attack alongside Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana.

Key Absentees and Squad Balance

The selectors have made some tough calls, with Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Asitha Fernando, and Chamindu Wickramasinghe missing out. Rajapaksa, in particular, has struggled for consistency in recent months, making his omission less surprising despite his match-winning abilities.

The batting unit will be anchored by experienced campaigners Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and Dinesh Chandimal, while Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando will be tasked with providing quick starts. Charith Asalanka, who continues to lead the side, will have the responsibility of marshaling a relatively young group towards cohesive performances.

Building Toward the T20 World Cup

With the T20 World Cup set to be played in India and Sri Lanka in a few months, this series serves as an important opportunity for both teams to assess their squad depth and experiment with combinations. Sri Lanka, having struggled with consistency in T20Is over the last year, will look to identify their core group of players and finalize their bowling combinations.

Eshan Malinga’s pace, coupled with spin options like Hasaranga, Wellalage, and Theekshana, gives Sri Lanka variety in their attack. The batting order, though experienced, will need to address their middle-order collapses—a concern that has haunted them in recent series.

The Road Ahead: Bangladesh Series Schedule

The three T20Is will be played across three venues: the series opener at Pallekele on July 10, followed by the second match in Dambulla on July 13, and the final game in Colombo on July 16. Sri Lanka will aim for a winning start at home as they prepare to test their bench strength and strategies in familiar conditions.

Bangladesh, always a competitive side in white-ball cricket, will pose a stiff challenge, making this an ideal series to simulate high-pressure scenarios for the Lankan youngsters.

Take Away

Eshan Malinga’s maiden call-up signals a fresh chapter in Sri Lanka’s T20 journey. With a blend of youthful exuberance and experienced heads, the squad looks well-rounded on paper. However, execution on the field will determine how well Sri Lanka builds momentum leading into the T20 World Cup.

Charith Asalanka’s leadership will be under the spotlight, as will the performances of returning players like Shanaka and Karunaratne. For Eshan Malinga, this series could be the first of many memorable moments in a promising career.