Sri Lanka Sweat Over Hasaranga Injury Ahead of T20I Series Against Bangladesh

Wanindu Hasaranga, who starred in the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh with a tournament-high nine wickets, has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series with a hamstring injury.

The Sri Lankan leg-spinner was a constant threat throughout the ODI series, dismantling Bangladesh’s batting, especially during the middle overs with his sharp turn and variations. But just before the first T20I, Sri Lanka were dealt a major blow: Hasaranga has been sidelined with a right hamstring strain.

He will miss not only Thursday’s opening T20I at Pallekele (scheduled for 7:30 pm local time) but the entire three-match series. His absence is a big relief for Bangladesh, who struggled repeatedly against him in the ODIs. Without his menace in the middle overs, the Tigers will hope for a more stable batting performance.

Despite the injury setback, Sri Lanka have not named a replacement for Hasaranga. They will contest the series with their already announced 17-member squad, led by Charith Asalanka.

The T20I series will see matches played across three venues: the second game is set for 13 July in Dambulla, and the final match will be on 16 July at Colombo’s Premadasa Stadium. While Sri Lanka boast experience in their squad, Hasaranga’s absence is sure to be a significant blow.

Sri Lanka T20I squad:
Charith Asalanka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamika Karunaratne, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Binura Fernando, Ishan Malinga.