BY SANDHYA DISSANAYAKE, ATTORNEY-AT-LAW
Sri Lanka Cricket has announced a list of 46 players who have been awarded National Player Contracts for the 2026–2027 season, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the country’s talent pool across all formats of international cricket.
According to a statement issued by Sri Lanka Cricket on Tuesday (2), the contract period will run from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027. Players have been categorized under A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and Central Contract categories based on a range of criteria including performance, consistency, fitness levels, future potential, and the strategic requirements of the national teams.
SLC stated that the contracts are designed to provide players with the necessary support, structure, and professional resources required to perform at the highest level while contributing to the long-term development of Sri Lankan cricket.
A notable feature of this year’s contract list is the inclusion of seven players receiving national contracts for the first time. The new entrants are Kamil Mishara, Lasith Croospulle, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Isitha Wijesundera, Wanuja Sahan, Dilum Sudeera and Tharindu Ratnayake.
Sri Lanka Cricket extended its congratulations to all contracted players while offering a special welcome to the newcomers who have earned national recognition through their performances and potential.
The governing body emphasized that the awarding of contracts reflects its continued focus on rewarding excellence, nurturing emerging talent, and maintaining a strong and competitive player pool capable of representing Sri Lanka in Test, ODI, and T20 International cricket.
Experienced Core Retained
The contracted group includes several established national stars, among them Kusal Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dinesh Chandimal, Wanindu Hasaranga, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka and Kamindu Mendis.
The pace department continues to feature experienced names such as Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Dilshan Madushanka and Matheesha Pathirana.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s spin resources remain strong with the inclusion of players such as Maheesh Theekshana, Prabath Jayasuriya, Jeffrey Vandersay and Akila Dananjaya.
Focus on Future Development
The inclusion of several younger players highlights SLC’s intention to build depth and prepare the next generation of national cricketers. Emerging talents such as Pavan Rathnayake, Eshan Malinga, Sonal Dinusha, Mohammed Shiraz and others have been rewarded for their progress and potential.
SLC noted that the contracted players are expected to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and performance as they prepare for a busy international calendar over the next twelve months.
The announcement comes at an important time for Sri Lankan cricket, with the national teams set to compete across multiple bilateral series and major ICC tournaments during the upcoming season.
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