Sat Sep 13 17:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Nissanka Poised to Break Sri Lankan T20I Record, Hasaranga Returns to Boost Squad

**Colombo, Sri Lanka** – Sri Lankan opening batsman Pathum Nissanka is on the cusp of etching his name in the nation’s T20I history books. He needs just 50 runs in his next eight innings to become the fastest Sri Lankan to reach the 2000-run milestone in the format, surpassing Kusal Perera’s record of 76 innings. Nissanka currently boasts 1950 runs in 67 matches, averaging 30.46.

As Sri Lanka prepares for upcoming T20I series, all eyes will be on Nissanka as he aims for this personal achievement. He, alongside Kusal Mendis and Kusal Perera, forms a crucial top order for the team.

Adding depth to the squad is the return of middle-order batsman Janith Liyanage, back in the T20I fold after a three-year hiatus. His recent match-winning performance in the ODI series against Zimbabwe has solidified his place as a valuable seam-bowling all-rounder, joining the likes of Dasun Shanaka and Chamika Karunaratne. Karunaratne is also on the verge of overtaking Sachitra Senanayake in the list of most T20I wicket-takers for Sri Lanka.

Furthermore, the team receives a significant boost with the return of star spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, who has recovered from a hamstring injury. Hasaranga, Sri Lanka’s highest T20I wicket-taker with 131 wickets, will spearhead a potent spin attack alongside Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage, which will be key on the expected sluggish UAE pitches. Slingy pacer Matheesha Pathirana adds another dimension to the bowling attack.

Led by Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka appears to have forged a well-balanced team, combining top-order stability with middle-order firepower and a diverse bowling attack. With Nissanka on the verge of a record and the return of key players, Sri Lanka looks primed for success in upcoming T20I competitions.

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