Sri Lanka’s hopes of making a strong impact at next month’s Asia Cup have taken a significant hit, with their star all‑rounder racing against time to regain fitness.
According to reports, Wanindu Hasaranga has yet to recover from the hamstring injury he suffered during the T20I series against Bangladesh in July. The 28‑year‑old is regarded as one of the most influential white‑ball cricketers in the region, and his absence from the Asia Cup squad would be a hammer blow to his side’s bid for a seventh title.
The latest sign of his slow recovery came with his omission from Sri Lanka’s upcoming series against Zimbabwe in the lead‑up to the Asia Cup. He was already absent from the two‑match ODI series beginning August 29 in Harare, and his exclusion from the 17‑member T20I squad for the three‑match series starting September 3 further underscores the uncertainty around his availability.
Hasaranga’s absence would leave a massive void in both departments: his middle‑overs bowling has underpinned much of Sri Lanka’s recent success, while his explosive lower‑order batting provides crucial balance.
Sri Lanka are the only powerhouse yet to confirm their Asia Cup squad, with Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India having already announced their teams.
Sri Lanka’s campaign will be closely monitored across the region, with rivals such as Pakistan and India keeping a keen eye on Hasaranga’s fitness. For Sri Lanka, his presence could be the difference between a competitive showing and a struggle against Asia’s heavyweights.
The clock is ticking, and unless Hasaranga makes a swift recovery, Sri Lanka may have to enter the Asia Cup without their most versatile match‑winner.