- July 10, 2025
Just when it looked like things were starting to come good for Sri Lanka, the cricket gods threw a curly one. Wanindu Hasaranga—the glue of Sri Lanka’s white-ball bowling unit—is, officially, sidelined for the T20I series against Bangladesh. It felt like some lad just threw me an overhead bouncer! The hamstring damage he did to his right leg in the last ODI has now ruled him out, leaving supporters questioning how the Lankan Lions will go without their magician-in-chief. As the first T20I is on Thursday, July 10, this news has thrown a flavour of nerves, hope, and trepidation into the mix.
No Hasaranga, No Problem? Not Exactly.
Let me clarify – Hasaranga is not just a name on the team sheet, he has been Sri Lanka’s T20 guy for a long, long time. Whether it be breaking key partnerships or bowling some economical overs in times of trouble, there is just something calming about Wanindu Hasaranga. He brings control.
This was reiterated yet again in the ODI series. In the first match, he sent the middle order into a historic disarray with a spell of 6 for 31, which turned the match on its head. His injury is more than physical – it is impacting the balance of the Sri Lankan team as a whole.
And unlike previous series where a like-for-like replacement could have been flown in or could have been had off the bench, Sri Lanka’s selectors decided to just go with what they had. No replacement. No Plan B. Just… adapt and hope.
Can the Young Guns Step Up in Time?
With Hasaranga heading back to Colombo for rehabilitation at the High Performance Center, it is time to shift attention away from the injured players to the rest of the squad. The leadership role won’t be easy—Asalanka has his work cut out for him.
The spin unit will revolve around Theekshana, while Vandersay and Wellalage add variety and balance. There can certainly be potential in the group, but can they deliver when needed, particularly in those moments when Bangladesh are flying? Only time will tell.
Sri Lanka has also brought in exciting quicks like Matheesha Pathirana and Nuwan Thushara, who bring raw pace and variation. If the spinners falter, the seamers may have to compensate — not the ideal scenario, but potentially a thrilling one for fans.
This Series Is Now a Test of Character
Bangladesh may now have some confidence, playing on home turf without Hasaranga’s services. However, for Sri Lanka, it is not simply about filling a gap, but rather about altering the approach tactically and strategically mid-series. Can this developing young side bring a new approach to the table?
The series offers a vital platform for new faces to sharpen their skills under pressure. Without the safety blanket that a world-class spinner affords a side, the leadership, mentality, and flexibility of the Lankan unit will face its sternest test since being defeated in T20 matches not too long ago.
To lose Hasaranga for Sri Lanka is more than a piece of team news — it changes the dynamics. It adds to the tension, intrigue, and realism of what is already a very tasty affair. On the playside, we now get to see if the next generation can seize the moment.
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