Sri Lanka have unveiled a full team for ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026Keeping their faith in the talent of the new generation, they want to make a deep run in the tournament. will captain the team vimath dinsarawith Kavija Gamage Appointed as vice-captain, as Sri Lanka aim to build on their encouraging performance in the last edition. This major youth event is starting from January 15, with matches to be played in Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Vimath Dinsara was given the responsibility of leadership
Dinsara has been handed the captaincy after impressing the selectors with his composure and consistency at the junior level. Known for his solid batting technique and calm presence in pressure situations, Dinsara is expected to lead the innings as well as strategically. His deputy, Gammage, adds further stability to the leadership group, providing flexibility as both a batsman and an all-round option.
Batting depth and all-round strength
There is a clear emphasis on batting depth and versatility in the Sri Lankan team. With Dinsara and Gammage, Dimantha Mahavithan Another batsman is expected to play an important role in the top and middle order. The selectors have also relied heavily on a group of multi-skilled all-rounders Veeran Chamuditha, Chamika Hantigalaand Gammage, who provides balance to the team with his ability to contribute to more than one discipline.
This all-round depth is likely to be vital in the difficult conditions of Zimbabwe and Namibia, where teams often need to adapt quickly to different pitches and weather. It appears that the Sri Lankan think tank wants to avoid over-reliance on specialists rather than select players who can adjust their roles depending on the match conditions.
Also read: Australia announces strong squad for U19 World Cup 2026, Oliver Peak to lead
Pay attention to suitability and circumstances
Sri Lanka’s approach to the 2026 edition is largely based on lessons learned from the previous Under-19 World Cup in South Africa, where they advanced to the Super 6 stage. That campaign highlighted the importance of flexibility, especially in foreign circumstances. With locations spanning two countries, adaptability once again became a central theme in the selection.
The bowling unit has a mix of fast and spin options, with players like Sethmika Seneviratne, Kugathas Mathulan, Rasith NimsaraAnd Vighneshwaran Akash is expected to shoulder the responsibility at different stages of the game. His ability to take advantage of conditions early on and control the middle overs could define Sri Lanka’s campaign.
Sri Lanka have been placed in Group A, where they will face a tough test against Ireland and Japan as well as defending champions Australia. The group promises to be a mix of traditional powers and emerging cricketing nations, making continuity important from the start.
Sri Lanka will open their tournament against Japan on January 17, a match that provides an early opportunity to calm nerves and build momentum. However, the clashes against Australia and Ireland are expected to provide a clearer picture of the team’s title credentials.
Sri Lanka U19 World Cup 2026 squad
Vimath Dinsara (captain), Kavija Gamage (vice-captain), Dimantha Mahavithana, Veeran Chamuditha, Dulanith Sigera, Chamika Hentigaala, Adam Hilmi, Chamrindu Nethsara, Sethmika Seneviratne, Kugathas Mathulan, Rasith Nimsara, Vigneswaran Akash, Jeevantha Sriram, Senuja Vekunagoda, Malintha. silva
