Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of T20I series against Bangladesh [Source: @CricWireLK/X]
Sri Lanka have been dealt a big blow just ahead of their T20I series against Bangladesh, as star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury. This is a major setback for the team, especially since Hasaranga plays a crucial role both with the ball and bat in the shorter format.
Why Hasaranga Is Missing Bangladesh T20I Series
According to a report from Newswire.lk, Wanindu Hasaranga is unlikely to recover in time for the three-match T20I series that begins on July 10 in Kandy. Even though the final MRI report is still awaited, early medical evaluations suggest that his hamstring injury is serious enough to keep him out of the action.
Interestingly, despite being injured, Hasaranga still bowled in the final ODI against Bangladesh, delivering a solid performance with 2 wickets for 35 runs. He also contributed with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 14 off 12 balls in the final overs. However, it now looks like he won’t be fit enough to take part in the upcoming T20Is.
Sri Lanka Riding High After ODI Series Win
While Hasaranga’s injury is unfortunate, Sri Lanka will enter the T20I series with confidence. They recently clinched the ODI series 2-1, finishing strong with a dominant 99-run victory in the final match at Pallekele.
Batting first, SL scored 285/7, with Kusal Mendis playing a brilliant knock of 124 off 115 balls. He was well-supported by captain Charith Asalanka, who added 58 runs in a crucial 124-run partnership.
In reply, Bangladesh collapsed for just 186 runs in 39.4 overs. Fast bowlers Asitha Fernando (3/33) and Dushmantha Chameera (3/51) destroyed the top order early, while spinners like Dunith Wellalage (2/33) and Hasaranga himself kept the pressure on in the middle overs.
Only Towhid Hridoy managed a decent score with his 51, but the rest of the batting line-up offered little resistance.
The T20I series between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will begin on July 10 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. The second match will take place in Dambulla on July 13, followed by the final game on July 16 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.