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Asia Cup, Match 8: Pathum Nissanka vs Hong Kong (Source: Getty Images)

Asia Cup 2025: 3 Sri Lanka players who could be picked in IPL 2026 Auction

Originally posted on CricTracker | Last updated Sep 25, 2025 10:00 AM ET

The Asia Cup 2025 is nearing its business end with India already sealing a place in the final. Bangladesh and Pakistan are locked in a virtual semifinal to determine India’s opponent for the September 28 showdown. While Sri Lanka managed to reach the Super Four, their campaign fell short with two crucial defeats.

Despite the overall disappointment, a few Sri Lankan players impressed with individual performances that could catch the eye of IPL scouts. As the IPL 2026 auction approaches, here are three players from Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup squad who could be picked in the next edition.

Asia Cup 2025: 3 players from Sri Lanka can pick in IPL 2026 auction

Dushmantha Chameera

Sri Lanka’s pacer Dushmantha Chameera remains one of the most consistent fast bowlers from the island nation. In this Asia Cup, he has picked up six wickets across five matches so far. While these are not staggering numbers, his ability to trouble batters with pace and bounce has been visible. More importantly, he was economical in crunch moments and provided breakthroughs upfront.

Chameera already has IPL experience, having turned out for multiple franchises, most recently the Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2025 where he took four wickets in six appearances. Though his returns were modest, franchises often value express pace and international experience in high-pressure tournaments. With several teams in constant search for reliable overseas pacers, Chameera’s proven skill set could see him earn another IPL deal in 2026.

Dasun Shanaka

Dasun Shanaka during the Asia Cup 2025 (Source: Surjeet Yadav/Getty Images)

Former Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka is another player who could come under the radar during the auction. He showcased his finishing ability with a gritty 64* against Bangladesh in the Super Four stage, rescuing his team from a tough position. Although the knock did not lead to victory, it reminded everyone of Shanaka’s ability to deliver under pressure.

As a seam-bowling all-rounder, Shanaka brings versatility to the table. He can provide balance to the lower-middle order with quick runs at the death and can chip in with a couple of overs when conditions suit. He previously featured for Gujarat Titans (GT) in a brief stint but has unfinished business in the IPL. With many franchises looking for dependable finishers, Shanaka could be a handy option in 2026.

Pathum Nissanka

Pathum Nissanka (Source: Getty Images)

One of Sri Lanka’s most reliable top-order batters, Pathum Nissanka enjoyed a strong Asia Cup campaign. He scored two consecutive half-centuries that played a key role in guiding his side into the Super Four. The right-hander is compact in technique yet aggressive when required, and has the temperament to adapt to different match situations.

Though he has limited exposure outside the Lanka Premier League (LPL), his performances in international cricket suggest he can be a valuable opener in franchise cricket. With IPL teams often on the lookout for solid top-order anchors who can set the platform for explosive middle orders, Nissanka could be a smart pick in the upcoming auction.

This article first appeared on CricTracker and was syndicated with permission.

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