Sri Lanka has suffered a major blow ahead of the ongoing Tri-Nation T20 series against Pakistan and Zimbabwe, with the news that star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga will miss the tournament due to injury. The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board confirmed yesterday that Hasaranga, who has been struggling to recover from a hamstring strain sustained during the ODI series, will not feature in the T20 matches.
Hasaranga’s absence is particularly significant given his vital role in the team. Known for his explosive batting, sharp fielding, and versatile leg-spin, he has consistently been a match-winner for Sri Lanka across formats. Losing such a pivotal player at this stage of the series poses a strategic challenge for the selectors and team management alike.
In response, the selectors have moved swiftly, bringing in young leg-spinner Vijaykanth Viyaskanth as Hasaranga’s replacement. The 21-year-old, who is currently representing Sri Lanka ‘A’ in the Asia Cup Rising Star tournament in Qatar, is widely regarded as one of the country’s most promising spin talents. Viyaskanth will join the national squad in Pakistan, marking a huge opportunity for the youngster to shine on the international stage.
Viyaskanth first gained attention in the 2020 Lanka Premier League, where he played for the Jaffna Stallions at just 18 years and 364 days old, setting a record as the youngest player to feature in the tournament. His recent performances in the 2025 LPL saw him finish as the second-highest wicket-taker, further cementing his reputation as a talented leg-spinner capable of delivering under pressure. Across 59 T20 games, he has taken 67 wickets at an impressive average of 20.98, underlining his consistency and ability to make an impact.
Sri Lanka’s squad changes do not end with Hasaranga’s injury. Charith Asalanka and Asitha Fernando have also been ruled out of the series due to illness. To fill the leadership vacuum, Dasun Shanaka has been appointed captain in Asalanka’s absence. Meanwhile, spin-bowling all-rounder Pavan Rathnayake has been added to replace Fernando. These adjustments present both a challenge and an opportunity, as fresh faces must step up in a high-pressure series.
The Tri-Nation series began yesterday, with Pakistan defeating Zimbabwe by five wickets in Rawalpindi. Sri Lanka’s first match is scheduled for tomorrow against Zimbabwe, a crucial encounter that could set the tone for their campaign. Despite the disruptions, the team will be hoping that the new inclusions can provide balance and dynamism.
Sri Lanka faces a demanding start to the series, and how the new players adapt will be closely watched by fans and analysts. The tournament provides a key chance for the squad to build momentum ahead of future international fixtures, testing both experience and emerging talent in challenging conditions.
Table: Squad Changes
| Player | Replacement | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Wanindu Hasaranga | Vijaykanth Viyaskanth | Hamstring injury |
| Charith Asalanka | Dasun Shanaka (Captain) | Illness |
| Asitha Fernando | Pavan Rathnayake | Illness |
