Sri Lanka's T20 World Cup Ambition Set For A Huge Blow, Wanindu Hasaranga Likely To Miss Remainder Of Tournament: Report

Sri Lanka's T20 World Cup title dream has taken a huge hit despite their convincing win over Ireland in Colombo. Star spinner Waninu Hasaranga could be ruled out of the remainder of the T20 World Cup after he sustained a hamstring injury in the last game. Despite the injury, the right -arm spinner continued to bowl and derailed the Irish batting lineup with a three-wicket haul.

Sri Lanka Likely To Request For Wanindu Hasaranga's Replacement

As per Sri Lankan media reports, Hasaranga is set for another injury layoff and Sri Lanka are likely to make a replacement request to the ICC. Hasaranga's persistent injury concerns have marred his career throughout, and a grade 3 muscle tear also cost him a place in the 2023 World Cup squad.

Legspinner Dushan Hemantha could be brought in as Hasaranga's replacement. Hasaranga appeared to hurt his hamstring after bowling just two deliveries against Ireland. But he decided to continue after a consultation with the physio but didn't look in proper rhythm as he couldn't even continue his entire follow-through. His absence will definitely be a massive dent to Sri Lanka's T20 World Cup ambitions.

Hasaranga underwent an MRI after the match, and the medical team will evaluate the report and is likely consult a specialist in the UK. Hasaranga went past Lasith Malinga to become Sri Lanka's top wicket taker in World Cup history.

Sri Lanka Need To Maintain Consistency

Sri Lanka are a lot dependent on their spin duo Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana and the former's injury would force them to alter their plans. They failed to qualify for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition but showed a glimpse of what people could expect from them.

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Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis shone brightly for the Lankans and to be at the top of their game, these two need to fire with the bat on a regular basis. Theekshana and Hasaranga shared six wickets between them and on spin-friendly Sri Lankan pitches, they would have been an ideal combination.

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