Wanindu Hasaranga’s hamstring injury has delivered a crushing blow to Sri Lanka at the 2026 T20 World Cup. The co-hosts must now navigate the tournament without their premier spinner and all-rounder.
The mishap happened mid-match against Ireland in Colombo on Sunday. Monday’s medical evaluation, including MRI and expert input from the UK, confirmed he is out for four weeks—effectively ending his involvement.
Hasaranga’s dual threat—dominating with the ball and accelerating with the bat—has been indispensable. Sri Lanka’s attack and depth suffer immensely without him.
His recent heroics against Ireland underscored his value: three wickets for 25 runs in a match-winning spell. Bouncing back from a poor start, Kamindu Mendis (44*19) and Kusal Mendis (56*) forged Sri Lanka to 163-6. Ireland’s reply of 143, led by Adair (34/23) and Tector (40/34), wasn’t enough.
Enter Dushan Hemantha, the 31-year-old leggie with six scalps from limited outings in five ODIs and three T20s.
The schedule presses on: Oman on February 12 in Pallekele, Australia February 16 there too, and Zimbabwe back in Colombo on the 19th. Sri Lanka’s resolve will be tested.