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Sri Lanka, the co-hosts of the 2026 T20 World Cup, has received some very bad news. Star leg-spinning all-rounder and match-winner Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out of the entire tournament due to a hamstring injury. The ICC technical committee has approved Dushan Hemantha to be included in the squad in his place.
How did Hasaranga get injured?
Hasaranga suffered this injury during the first match played against Ireland. In this match played at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Hasaranga walked off the field after bowling his first over. However, seeing the team's needs, he returned and, despite being in pain, completed his quota of four overs. He took three wickets for 25 runs in this match, playing a major role in Sri Lanka's 20-run victory.
Why is this a "body blow" for Sri Lanka?
Hasaranga's dismissal is nothing short of a shock for Sri Lanka. There are some important reasons behind this:
- Leading Wicket-Taker: Hasaranga is Sri Lanka's leading wicket-taker in T20Is (154 wickets, 95 matches).
- World Cup Record: He was the leading wicket-taker in the 2021 and 2022 T20 World Cups (16 and 15 wickets, respectively).
- Spin-Friendly Conditions: His role was going to be crucial in the matches being played in Sri Lanka.
Who is Dushan Hemantha?
Dushan Hemantha, who replaced Hasaranga, is also a leg-spinner. Hemantha's record so far is as follows:
- He has played 5 ODIs and 3 T20Is for Sri Lanka.
- He recently performed well on the Zimbabwe tour, taking 3/38 in the final match of the series.
Hemantha doesn't have the experience of Hasaranga, but he can trouble opposing teams with his spin in home conditions.
