The Global Youth League T25 is thrilled to announce a landmark partnership with two of Sri Lanka's most exciting cricket talents — Dunith Wellalage and Vishen Halambage. These dynamic young cricketers will serve as official ambassadors for the tournament, inspiring the next generation of cricket stars from around the world.
This partnership represents a significant milestone for GYL T25, bringing together established international talent with the tournament's mission to discover and nurture tomorrow's cricket legends. Both ambassadors have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication to the sport, making them ideal role models for the young cricketers who will compete in this prestigious 11-day tournament in Sri Lanka.
Dunith Wellalage
Sri Lanka International All-Rounder | ICC Player of the Month (August 2024)
Dunith Nethmika Wellalage is one of Sri Lanka's brightest cricket talents. Born on January 9, 2003, in Colombo, this 23-year-old left-arm orthodox spinner and left-handed batsman has already made a significant impact on the international stage.
Wellalage's journey to stardom began at the 2022 ICC Under-19 World Cup in the West Indies, where he captained Sri Lanka with distinction. He was the tournament's leading wicket-taker with an impressive 17 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls. He also made history by scoring a century (113 runs) in the semi-final against South Africa, becoming the first Sri Lankan U19 captain to achieve this feat.
Since his ODI debut against Australia in June 2022, Wellalage has established himself as a match-winner for Sri Lanka. His career-best ODI bowling figures of 5/27 came against India in August 2024, helping Sri Lanka win their first bilateral ODI series against India in 27 years. That same month, he was named ICC Men's Player of the Month after scoring 108 runs and taking 7 wickets in the historic series.
Beyond international cricket, Wellalage has represented top franchises including Jaffna Kings and Colombo Strikers in the Lanka Premier League, Fortune Barishal in the Bangladesh Premier League, Barbados Royals in the Caribbean Premier League, and Paarl Royals in SA20.
"I am excited to be part of this league and to witness the growth of young cricket talent. The Youth Global Cricket League 2026 brings fresh energy and opportunity to youth cricket, and we're delighted to join this journey."- Dunith Wellalage
Vishen Halambage
Rising Star All-Rounder | Paarl Royals SA20 Squad Member
Vishen Sasmith Halambage represents the exciting future of Sri Lankan cricket. Born on January 19, 2005, in Ambalangoda, Galle District, this 20-year-old all-rounder has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the most promising young talents in the country.
A versatile cricketer who bats right-handed as an opening or middle-order batsman and bowls leg-break and right-arm medium pace, Halambage's journey began at age 12 when he joined a local cricket academy. Cricket runs deep in his family — his father played first-class cricket, and his uncle is involved in district cricket administration.
Halambage represented Sri Lanka at the U-19 level, competing in the 2023 ACC U-19 Asia Cup in UAE and the U-19 World Cup 2024. His impressive performances in domestic cricket, including the Lanka T10 2024, SLC T20 League 2025, and Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025, earned him a call-up to the Sri Lanka senior squad for the T20I series against Zimbabwe in September 2025.
In a testament to his exceptional talent, Halambage was signed by Paarl Royals for the SA20 League 2025/26 season — a remarkable achievement for a player yet to make his senior international debut. This signing puts him alongside some of the world's best cricketers and provides invaluable experience for his developing career.
"I am truly happy to join the Youth Global Cricket League 2026. This tournament creates a meaningful space for young players to compete, improve, and enjoy the game they love. It's a privilege to support such an inspiring initiative."- Vishen Halambage
A Shared Vision for Youth Cricket
The partnership with Dunith Wellalage and Vishen Halambage perfectly embodies the Global Youth League T25's commitment to bridging generations of cricket talent. Both ambassadors understand the challenges and opportunities facing young cricketers today, having navigated their own paths from youth cricket to the international stage.
Their involvement will provide invaluable inspiration and guidance to the 100 young cricketers selected from over 20 countries to participate in the tournament. From sharing insights during training sessions to engaging with players throughout the 11-day competition, Wellalage and Halambage will play an active role in creating an unforgettable experience for all participants.
"Having Dunith and Vishen as ambassadors brings authentic inspiration to our tournament. They represent exactly what GYL T25 is about — young talent achieving great things on the world stage. Their journey from youth cricket to international recognition will motivate every young player who dreams of wearing their national colors."- Global Youth League T25 Organizing Committee
The Global Youth League T25 continues to attract world-class partnerships as it prepares to host the most exciting youth cricket tournament of 2026. With ambassadors who have proven themselves at the highest level of the sport, participating players will have unprecedented access to cricketing excellence.