Veteran cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has picked Sri Lanka’s probable playing XI for the T20 World Cup 2026 as well. He added that the Lankan Lions have got an easy draw till the semi-finals as well. However, Sri Lanka are co-hosting the T20 World Cup 2026, starting on February 7,
with India and they are placed in Group B alongside Australia, Zimbabwe, Oman and Ireland.

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, ‘Aakash Chopra,’ he said, “The XI could be like this – Kamil Mishara with Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka, Janith Liyanage, if they want to play him, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, and since Eshan Malinga is not there now, you might have to look towards Dushmantha Chameera.”

“The truth is that they are in an easy group. It should be a good match against Australia, but the other teams in their group shouldn’t trouble them. Nine out of 10 times they will make it to the second round, and the second round will also be easy. They are not going to come in India’s group. So Sri Lanka has got it easy,” he again shared.

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However, Aakash Chopra added that the T20 World Cup 2026 presents Sri Lanka with an opportunity to regain their lost glory as well.

“Since they are in good groups and this team has done well previously, having lifted the championship, there is a possibility to actually regain their lost glory. You have the strength, the team, and the conditions. Then sky is the limit. Reach the semi-finals at least. They have a massive opportunity to reach the semi-finals, provided they get things together,” he said.

“Strategy, spin to win to a certain degree. They might focus a little more on that. In batting, they focus a lot on Pathum Nissanka. There will be expectations from Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis as well, and the two seniors, Asalanka and Dasun Shanaka, to take the team home,” Aakash Chopra concluded.