Former Sri Lanka Test cricketer Pramodaya Wickramasinghe is set for a return to the spotlight, with sources telling Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) that he is tipped to be appointed Chairman of Selectors once the current panel’s tenure expires later this year.
A member of Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup-winning squad, Wickramasinghe has remained closely involved with the game, working in administration and most recently serving on the Technical Committee during the Asia Cup in the UAE.
A Proven Selector with International Pedigree
Wickramasinghe represented Sri Lanka in 40 Test matches and previously served a three-year stint as Chairman of Selectors. His tenure came to an end following Sri Lanka’s disappointing 2023 ODI World Cup, where an eighth-place finish in the 10-team tournament saw the team miss out on the Champions Trophy and face additional ICC qualifying rounds.
Those results ultimately cost him his position.
Building for the Future: A Legacy That Endures
Despite the turbulent end to his first tenure, Wickramasinghe’s earlier work earned praise. He played a key role in introducing a new generation of players, handing international debuts to the likes of Pathum Nissanka and Charith Asalanka, investments that are now paying dividends at the highest level.
Current Panel: Highs in ODIs and Tests, T20 Struggles Persist
The existing selection committee, led by former opener Upul Chandana, adopted a policy of backing players and offering extended runs. The approach delivered tangible results, with Sri Lanka climbing to fourth in the ODI rankings last year and registering a notable Test series win in England in September.
However, the success did not translate to the shorter format. Sri Lanka exited in the first round of the T20 World Cup in the USA and Caribbean and later suffered a 3–0 ODI whitewash in Pakistan, raising questions about balance and adaptability.
Continuity Over Overhaul Ahead of Home T20 World Cup
With a home T20 World Cup just six weeks away, a major reshuffle of selectors would be far from ideal. Sri Lanka Cricket appears keen to strike a balance between change and stability.
Indika de Seram and Tharanga Paranavithana are expected to be retained, while Ajantha Mendis and Paranavithana are likely to step aside. Former fast bowler Vinothan John and batter Hemantha Wickramaratne are in line for inclusion in the revamped panel.
A Packed 2026 Calendar Raises the Stakes
Sri Lanka face an intense international schedule in 2026. The year includes home bilateral series against Pakistan and England, followed by a tour of the West Indies as part of their World Test Championship campaign. India arrive in August for a Test series, before Sri Lanka embark on a multi-format tour of New Zealand during the Christmas window. Strong, consistent selection policy will be crucial.
Final Clearance Pending from Sports Ministry
Wickramasinghe’s name has already been forwarded to the Sports Ministry, with the final appointment subject to ratification under Sri Lanka’s Sports Law. If approved, his return would mark a full-circle moment, bringing experience, continuity, and long-term vision back to the heart of Sri Lanka cricket’s selection process.
