In a devastating blow to Sri Lanka’s hopes in the 2026 T20 World Cup, star spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out of the tournament due to a serious hamstring injury. The co-hosts now face an uphill battle without one of their most reliable performers.
Hasaranga suffered the injury during Sunday’s match against Ireland in Colombo. An MRI scan on Monday confirmed a severe tear in his left hamstring. After review by a UK specialist, the decision was made to exclude him from the World Cup squad. Reports indicate he will be sidelined from cricket for at least four weeks.
This is a massive setback for Sri Lanka. Hasaranga is not just a world-class leg-spinner but also a handy lower-order batsman who has rescued the team on numerous occasions. His ability to turn games single-handedly makes his absence deeply felt.
In the opening group match against Ireland, Hasaranga starred with figures of 3-25 in four overs, playing a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s 20-run victory. Despite a shaky start, Kamindu Mendis smashed 44 off 19 balls and Kusal Mendis remained unbeaten on 56 to propel Sri Lanka to 163-6. Ireland fell short at 143 all out, despite gritty knocks from Ross Adair (34 off 23) and Harry Tector (40 off 34).
With Hasaranga out, the team is likely to turn to leg-spinner Dushan Hemantha as replacement. The 31-year-old has featured in five ODIs and three T20Is for Sri Lanka, claiming six wickets so far.
Sri Lanka’s campaign continues with a group clash against Oman on February 12 in Pallekele, followed by Australia on February 16 in the same venue, and Zimbabwe on February 19 in Colombo. The injury couldn’t have come at a worse time as the Lankans aim to leverage home advantage in the tournament.