Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka has been cleared to participate in the Pakistan Super League 2026 and is set to link up with Lahore Qalandars ahead of the tournament. His availability comes after earlier calls for improved fitness standards following Sri Lanka’s exit from the T20 World Cup 2026.
The league has already seen several withdrawals due to injuries and fitness concerns, but Shanaka’s clearance provides a boost for the three-time PSL champions as they prepare for the new season. Known for his aggressive batting during the recently concluded World Cup, the all-rounder’s inclusion adds further strength to the Qalandars’ squad.
Franchise confirms signing after auction
According to an official social media announcement from Lahore Qalandars, Shanaka was signed for PKR 75 lakh, equivalent to approximately ₹24.8 lakh, shortly after the PSL 2026 auction. With the tournament scheduled to begin in late March, a positive fitness assessment was required before his participation could be confirmed. Recent reports indicate that the white-ball all-rounder has successfully completed the fitness test and is expected to join the team shortly.
This will mark Shanaka’s second stint in the PSL after representing Peshawar Zalmi during the 2022–23 season. In his previous appearance for the franchise, he featured in two matches, scoring 27 runs and bowling two overs, averaging 27 at a strike rate of 103.84.
Recent World Cup performances and form
Shanaka scored 165 runs during the T20 World Cup 2026, including a 31-ball 76 against Pakistan in the Super Eight stage. While his bowling returns were modest, he claimed three wickets in five matches at an economy rate of 9.00.
More Read
Lahore Qalandars have also secured several overseas signings, including Rubin Hermann, Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batter Parvez Hossain Emon, and Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza in the all-rounder category, alongside Hussain Talat.
Under the leadership of Shaheen Afridi, the franchise will once again aim to challenge for a fourth PSL title. Their bowling unit features players such as Mustafizur Rahman and Haris Rauf, with Shanaka’s addition strengthening the all-round options within the squad.
Potential impact on the Qalandars lineup
Shanaka’s familiarity with playing conditions in Pakistan is expected to enhance his value to the team. In T20I matches on Pakistani soil, he has maintained a strike rate of 152.4 across 17 games and has recorded two half-centuries. With the ball, he has taken three wickets in eight matches at an economy rate of 8.41.
His presence is likely to provide greater balance to the playing combination, complementing a solid top-order batting lineup and a strong pace attack.
