लेख विवरण

KATHMANDU, August 28, 2025: In a significant development ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup, leg-spinning all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga has been included in Sri Lanka's 16-member squad.

 

Hasaranga had been recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during the previous series against Bangladesh, which led to his exclusion from the T20I series against Zimbabwe. It is hoped he will be fully fit for the tournament in the UAE.

 

As a result of Hasaranga's return, Dushan Hemantha has been dropped, and uncapped batter Vishen Halambage is also left out. There are a total of four changes from the squad that played against Bangladesh, with Avishka Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Eshan Malinga also excluded. Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamil Mishara, and fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera have been added, along with Chamika Karunaratne, who returns to provide another seam bowling option.

 

With Dunith Wellalage also in the squad, Sri Lanka now has three main spin options, including Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana. Sri Lanka will start their Asia Cup matches on September 13 against Bangladesh, having been runners-up in 2023 and champions in 2022.