Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup 2026 dreams have taken a severe hit with the news that ace all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga is out of the tournament. A hamstring injury sustained against Ireland has forced the leg-spin wizard out of action.
The injury occurred during the Colombo encounter on Sunday. Monday’s MRI revealed a significant issue in his left hamstring, leading to his exclusion after consultation with a UK expert. Sri Lankan media reports suggest a four-week recovery period, ruling him out entirely.
Hasaranga’s versatility has been key to Sri Lanka’s success. His match-winning bowling and crucial batting contributions from the lower order have defined many victories. Losing him disrupts the team’s balance significantly.
He had set the tone in the Ireland win, grabbing 3 wickets for 25 runs. Sri Lanka recovered from early losses thanks to explosive innings from Kamindu Mendis (44 off 19) and Kusal Mendis (56 not out), posting 163-6. Ireland’s chase crumbled to 143, with Adair (34) and Tector (40) unable to steer them home.
Dushan Hemantha, a 31-year-old leg-spinner with limited international exposure—five ODIs and three T20Is, six wickets—is poised to step in.
Upcoming fixtures include Oman on February 12, Australia on the 16th, and Zimbabwe on the 19th, all critical for Sri Lanka to regroup and advance without their talisman.