Kusal Mendis, Binura Fernando ruled out of T20I series in England

Sri Lanka's Kusal Mendis and Binura Fernando have been excluded from the country's upcoming T20I series against England due to their ongoing rehabilitation from injuries sustained during the 2026 Lanka Premier League, according to the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). The announcement of their absence was made just over a day after they were included in the 16-member squad, alongside Kusal Mendis who was chosen as the captain for both the T20I and ODI series.

Charith Asalanka, who has returned to the vice-captain's position for the series, will now lead the Sri Lankan team in the T20Is. If Kusal Mendis were to miss the ODIs as well, Asalanka might take over that role too. Kusal Mendis has been sidelined since July 19 due to a right hamstring injury, while Binura Fernando's absence is attributed to a back injury since August 5.

To replace Kusal Mendis, Pavan Rathnayake, a 24-year-old top-order batter, has been included in the T20I touring party. Additionally, Dilshan Madushanka, the fast bowler who was part of the squad for the recent Test series against India but did not play, has taken Binura Fernando's place in the squad. Asalanka returned to the leadership group three months after being removed as ODI captain and six months after being sidelined from the T20I unit.

His recent performances have been lackluster, with 93 runs at a strike rate of 124 from six innings.

The T20I matches are scheduled to take place on September 15 in Southampton, September 17 in Cardiff, and September 19 in Manchester. The ODIs will be played on September 22 in Chester-le-Street, September 24 in Leeds, and September 27 in The Oval.