Dhananjaya de Silva Steps Down as Sri Lanka Test Captain, Kusal Mendis Takes Charge
Sri Lanka cricket has witnessed a major leadership change as Dhananjaya de Silva has stepped down as the national Test captain with immediate effect. The experienced all-rounder has decided to hand over the leadership responsibility to the next generation while confirming that he remains available to play Test cricket for Sri Lanka.
De Silva’s decision was announced on October 8, 2026, bringing an end to his tenure as Sri Lanka’s Test captain, which began in January 2024. During his captaincy, he led the team in 18 Tests and guided Sri Lanka to seven victories.
Dhananjaya de Silva Steps Down From Test Captaincy
Dhananjaya de Silva informed Sri Lanka’s selection committee about his decision to resign from the Test captaincy.
Explaining his decision, de Silva said that he believed the leadership responsibility should move to the next generation. Despite giving up the captaincy, the 35-year-old all-rounder has made it clear that he wants to continue representing Sri Lanka as a player.
Sri Lanka Cricket also thanked de Silva for his contribution and leadership during his time as Test captain and welcomed his continued availability as a player.
Dhananjaya de Silva’s Record as Sri Lanka Test Captain
De Silva took over the Test captaincy from Dimuth Karunaratne in January 2024.
During his 18-Test tenure as captain, Sri Lanka recorded seven wins. With the bat, de Silva scored 1,130 runs at an average of 36.45 while also contributing with the ball, taking nine wickets at a bowling average of 44.44.
His leadership period also included several important matches in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle.
Dhananjaya de Silva’s Test Captaincy Stats
| Category | Record |
| Tests as captain | 18 |
| Wins | 7 |
| Runs as captain | 1,130 |
| Batting average | 36.45 |
| Wickets | 9 |
| Bowling average | 44.44 |
Kusal Mendis Set to Lead Sri Lanka in Tests
Following de Silva’s resignation, Kusal Mendis has been appointed Sri Lanka’s new Test captain.
Mendis already has leadership experience in Sri Lanka’s white-ball teams, making the move to Test captaincy another significant step in his international career. His first assignment in the role will be Sri Lanka’s upcoming two-Test series against Pakistan, beginning in November.
The appointment gives Sri Lanka a chance to establish a more unified leadership structure across its international teams.
Why Did Dhananjaya de Silva Resign?
The main reason given by de Silva was his belief that the leadership should be passed to the next generation of Sri Lankan cricketers.
Importantly, his decision is not a retirement from Test cricket. De Silva remains available for selection and is expected to continue contributing as an experienced all-rounder.
His decision therefore represents a change in leadership rather than an exit from international cricket.
What Does the Change Mean for Sri Lanka Test Cricket?
The captaincy change comes at an important stage for Sri Lanka. The team is competing in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle, and consistent results will be crucial as the qualification race develops.
A new captain also provides Sri Lanka with an opportunity to build a fresh leadership group around experienced players and emerging talent.
Kusal Mendis will now have the responsibility of leading the Test side while continuing to contribute as a senior batter and white-ball captain.
De Silva Still Available for Sri Lanka
One of the most important aspects of the announcement is that Dhananjaya de Silva has not walked away from Test cricket.
The former captain has confirmed that he remains available to represent Sri Lanka as a player. This means Sri Lanka could still benefit from his experience, batting ability and all-round skills in future Test matches.
His continued presence could also help the new leadership group during the transition.
What Happens Next for Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka’s immediate focus will now shift toward the upcoming Test assignment under Kusal Mendis.
The new captain will face the challenge of maintaining competitiveness in the World Test Championship while managing a squad that includes both established players and younger talent.
For Sri Lankan cricket, the transition could mark the beginning of a new leadership era.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Dhananjaya de Silva step down as Sri Lanka Test captain?
Dhananjaya de Silva stepped down because he believes the Test leadership should move to the next generation of Sri Lankan cricketers. He remains available to play for Sri Lanka.
Who is the new Sri Lanka Test captain?
Kusal Mendis has been appointed the new captain of Sri Lanka’s men’s Test team.
How many Tests did Dhananjaya de Silva captain Sri Lanka?
Dhananjaya de Silva captained Sri Lanka in 18 Test matches and recorded seven victories.
Has Dhananjaya de Silva retired from Test cricket?
No. De Silva has stepped down from the captaincy but has confirmed that he remains available to represent Sri Lanka as a player.
When did Dhananjaya de Silva become Sri Lanka Test captain?
De Silva was appointed Sri Lanka’s Test captain in January 2024, succeeding Dimuth Karunaratne.
Final Takeaway
Dhananjaya de Silva’s decision brings his Sri Lanka Test captaincy tenure to an end, but it does not mark the end of his Test career. After leading Sri Lanka in 18 Tests and seven victories, he has chosen to make way for the next generation.
With Kusal Mendis now taking charge, Sri Lanka enters a new phase of Test leadership. The upcoming matches will provide the first major opportunity to assess the direction of the team under its new captain.