Wed. Jul 30th, 2025

Wanindu Hasaranga Ruled Out of Bangladesh T20I Series with Hamstring Injury

Sri Lanka has been dealt a major blow ahead of their highly anticipated T20I series against Bangladesh, as star leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury. The dynamic all-rounder, who has been central to Sri Lanka’s success in white-ball cricket, sustained the injury during the final ODI of the recently concluded series. As a result, Hasaranga will miss the entire three-match T20I series starting Thursday, July 10, forcing the Lankan side to regroup without their premier spin option.

Hasaranga’s Injury: A Huge Setback

Wanindu Hasaranga’s influence in Sri Lanka’s limited-overs setup cannot be overstated. His crucial role in turning the tide during the first ODI against Bangladesh, where his spells initiated a historic collapse, highlighted his match-winning abilities. Unfortunately, while batting in the final ODI, Hasaranga suffered a hamstring strain on his right leg. Following assessments by the team’s medical staff, it was decided that he would return to Colombo to undergo rehabilitation at the High Performance Center.

Sri Lanka Cricket has opted not to name a replacement in the squad, indicating confidence in their existing pool of players to step up in his absence.

Charith Asalanka to Lead a Revamped Squad

With Hasaranga sidelined, Charith Asalanka will take on the captaincy duties for the T20I series. Asalanka has grown into a leadership role over the past year and will look to galvanize a young but promising side. The squad reflects several changes from the team that faced New Zealand earlier this year, with a blend of experience and youth.

The leadership challenge now rests on Asalanka’s shoulders as he looks to craft a winning combination without one of his most impactful players.

Key Squad Members to Watch

The squad boasts a solid mix of batting firepower and bowling variety. Experienced campaigners such as Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, and Kusal Perera will provide stability in the batting order. Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando add youthful aggression at the top, while Kamindu Mendis and Dasun Shanaka contribute valuable all-round options.

On the bowling front, Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay will be tasked with filling the spin void left by Hasaranga. Pace options such as Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Binura Fernando, and Chamika Karunaratne round out the bowling attack. Notably, Eshan Malinga, who recently earned his maiden call-up, will be one to watch.

Opportunity for the Young Guns

Hasaranga’s absence, while unfortunate, presents an opportunity for Sri Lanka’s emerging players to stake their claim. Players like Dunith Wellalage and Kamindu Mendis could play pivotal roles in the middle overs, providing spin and batting depth. The series also allows Eshan Malinga and Matheesha Pathirana to further establish themselves as future stars of Sri Lankan cricket.

Against a competitive Bangladesh side playing in their home conditions, these young players will be tested. But if they can seize their moment, Sri Lanka could uncover new match-winners.

Bangladesh Series: A Crucial Test Ahead of the World Cup

If you forget even KL Rahul’s brilliance, India might feel they have left some runs out there. After getting to 333/4, they were bowled out for 364, a sudden collapse that may have consequences.

“Ideally, from the position we were in, we would’ve wanted at least 40 or 50 runs more,” admitted Rahul.

India also discussed declaring earlier, to put England under pressure to bat in stilling conditions, but they decided not to. The next short spell will reveal whether this decision cost them.

Take Away

Wanindu Hasaranga’s injury comes at an unfortunate time for Sri Lanka, but it also serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports. Charith Asalanka’s leadership and the performances of young talents will be crucial as Sri Lanka aim to overcome this setback and put up a strong showing against Bangladesh. With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, these matches will test Sri Lanka’s squad depth and resilience.

FAQs

Q1: What is the extent of Wanindu Hasaranga’s injury?

Hasaranga sustained a right hamstring injury while batting in the final ODI against Bangladesh. He is currently undergoing rehabilitation in Colombo and will miss the entire T20I series.

Q2: Who will captain Sri Lanka in the T20I series against Bangladesh?

Charith Asalanka has been appointed as the captain for the T20I series, stepping in for Hasaranga.

Q3: Which players are expected to fill Hasaranga’s role?

Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay are likely to lead the spin attack in Hasaranga’s absence, while all-rounders like Kamindu Mendis and Dunith Wellalage could also play key roles.