Sri Lanka suffered a major setback in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 as star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a hamstring injury sustained during their opening match against Ireland in Colombo on Sunday.
Hasaranga completed his four-over spell in the match, returning impressive figures of 3 for 25 to stem Ireland’s chase of 164. However, subsequent medical assessment revealed a significant tear in his left hamstring.
An MRI scan conducted on Monday confirmed the injury, with the report later reviewed by a specialist in the UK, following which Sri Lanka officially ruled him out on Tuesday.
The injury is believed to be linked to a previous hamstring concern, though it is not being classified as a direct recurrence. Hasaranga has endured multiple fitness setbacks in recent years, including a long-standing foot issue.
The ICC is yet to approve a replacement, but Sri Lanka are expected to name leg-spin all-rounder Dushan Hemantha as Hasaranga’s stand-in.
While Hemantha offers a similar skill set, his international experience remains limited, having played only three T20Is, in which he has taken four wickets at an economy rate of 7.85. With no additional spinners in reserve, Sri Lanka could be forced to draft him straight into the playing XI.
Hasaranga’s absence significantly dents Sri Lanka’s World Cup prospects. He has been their most effective bowler in the format and boasts an outstanding T20 World Cup record, with 40 wickets at an economy rate of 6.01 from 20 innings.
Sri Lanka next face Oman on February 12 in Pallekele, before taking on Australia at the same venue on February 16. Their final group-stage match is scheduled against Zimbabwe in Colombo on February 19.