Dhananjaya de Silva has resigned as Sri Lanka Test captain with immediate effect, Sri Lanka Cricket announced in an official media statement on October 8, 2026. The 35-year-old informed the Selection Committee of his choice openly, indicating a clear desire for the leadership role to be passed on to a younger generation of players.
Dhananjaya de Silva, who was born on September 6, 1991, clarified that his decision exclusively applies to the captaincy. He has no plans to retire from international cricket and will remain eligible for selection in all formats.
Why did Dhananjaya de Silva resign down as Sri Lanka’s Test captain?
Dhananjaya de Silva explanation, as stated in his communication to the Selection Committee, was clearly generational. He believes that younger players should now assume leadership responsibilities for Sri Lanka in the longest format.
Dhananjaya de Silva was named Sri Lanka’s 18th Test captain in January 2024, succeeding Dimuth Karunaratne. His tenure lasted nearly three years, as he led the side through 18 Test matches. Under his leadership, Sri Lanka won seven games, lost eight, and drew three, for a win percentage of 38.88 percent.
Who will become Sri Lanka’s next Test captain?
Sri Lanka Cricket had yet to name a successor to the Test captaincy as of October 8, 2026. The Selection Committee is expected to confirm a replacement in due course, although no deadline, shortlist, or favoured candidate have been announced.
De Silva’s continuous availability as a player is an important facet of the transfer. His expertise in all three formats suggests he could be included in future Test squads under whoever is appointed to captain the side next.
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Sri Lanka’s next Test match is scheduled to be against Pakistan in November. The two Asian powerhouses will meet off in a two-match Test series. The first Test will be played in Rawalpindi, with the second in Lahore.
