8 Sri Lankan players picked for Abu Dhabi T10 League

Eight Sri Lankan cricketers have been selected across five franchises for the 2026 Abu Dhabi T10 League following the player draft held this week.

Former Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka and fast bowler Eshan Malinga have joined Yas Lions, while Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana and Janith Liyanage were selected by Royal Desert Champions.

Fast bowler Nuwan Thushara will represent UAE Bulls, while Dunith Wellalage has joined Arabian Aces. Kusal Perera, meanwhile, has been picked by Emirates Eagles.

The Sri Lankan players selected are:

Yas Lions: Dasun Shanaka, Eshan Malinga

Royal Desert Champions: Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Janith Liyanage

UAE Bulls: Nuwan Thushara

Arabian Aces: Dunith Wellalage

Emirates Eagles: Kusal Perera

Sri Lankan-born fast bowler Amshi de Silva has also been selected by Arabian Aces, but he is now pursuing his cricket career in the United States.

De Silva, who was born in Galle, previously represented Sri Lanka at Under-19 and A-team level before moving to the United States. He played for Texas Super Kings in Major League Cricket this year and is working towards becoming eligible to represent the USA internationally.

The 2026 Abu Dhabi T10 season is scheduled to begin on November 7. (Newswire)

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