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Sri Lanka‘s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign has suffered a major setback with star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to injury. The co-hosts confirmed the development after the wrist-spinner sustained a left hamstring strain during their opening clash against Ireland in Colombo.
The injury has not only disrupted Sri Lanka’s balance but also dealt an emotional blow to a squad that heavily relies on Hasaranga’s match-winning abilities with both bat and ball.
Grit on display despite visible discomfort for Wanindu Hasaranga
Hasaranga picked up the injury during Sri Lanka’s first match against Ireland at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday (February 8). After bowling just one over, the 28-year-old was seen leaving the field in visible discomfort, clutching his left hamstring.
What followed, however, underlined his commitment to the national cause. Despite struggling physically, Hasaranga returned to complete his full quota of four overs. Battling pain, he produced a decisive spell of 3 for 25, playing a key role in Sri Lanka’s 20-run victory. His wickets broke Ireland’s momentum at crucial junctures and showcased his fighting spirit.
Yet, it was clear that something was amiss. Observers noted a dip in his usual agility and sharpness in the field. Medical assessments after the game confirmed that the injury would require sufficient recovery time, effectively ruling him out of the remainder of the tournament.
A towering presence in Sri Lanka’s T20 setup
Hasaranga’s absence leaves a significant void in Sri Lanka’s lineup. Over the years, he has emerged as the heartbeat of their T20I attack. With 154 wickets in 95 matches, he stands as Sri Lanka’s leading wicket-taker in the shortest format — a testament to his consistency and impact.
His performances on the global stage have been particularly remarkable. He topped the wicket charts in consecutive T20 World Cups, claiming 16 scalps in 2021 and following it up with 15 in 2022. Those campaigns cemented his reputation as one of the premier leg-spinners in world cricket.
Beyond numbers, Hasaranga’s ability to break partnerships in the middle overs and contribute handy runs lower down the order makes him a rare all-round package. Losing such a player midway through a major tournament inevitably forces a tactical reshuffle.
Replacement announced for the ace spinner
The ICC’s technical committee has approved fellow leg-spinner Dushan Hemantha as Hasaranga’s replacement for the remainder of the event.
Hemantha, though relatively inexperienced at the highest level, brings promise and recent international exposure. He has featured in five ODIs and three T20Is for Sri Lanka, picking up six wickets across those appearances. His most recent outing came during Sri Lanka’s tour of Zimbabwe in September ahead of the Asia Cup, where he impressed with figures of 3 for 38 in the final ODI of the series.
Team management will now hope that Hemantha can rise to the occasion and shoulder the responsibility in a high-pressure tournament environment.
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