Wanindu Hasaranga Returns to Sri Lanka Squad for Asia Cup 2025

Wanindu Hasaranga Returns to Sri Lanka Squad for Asia Cup 2025

Leg-spinning allrounder Wanindu Hasaranga has been named in Sri Lanka’s 16-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup in the UAE, marking his return from a hamstring injury. Hasaranga sustained the injury during Sri Lanka’s recent series against Bangladesh and was subsequently left out of the squad for the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe. However, team management remains hopeful that he will be fully fit for the Asia Cup, which begins in mid-September.

Hasaranga replaces Dushan Hemantha from the squad named for the Zimbabwe series, while uncapped batter Vishen Halambage has also been omitted. These are the only two changes from the Zimbabwe-bound team.

The Asia Cup squad also reflects a broader reshuffle following Sri Lanka’s home series defeat to Bangladesh. Four players who were part of that campaign—Avishka Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Eshan Malinga—have been left out. In their place, batters Nuwanidu Fernando and Kamil Mishara, along with fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera, have been included.

Also making a return is seam-bowling allrounder Chamika Karunaratne, while Dasun Shanaka retains his place as another pace option. Notably absent is veteran Angelo Mathews, indicating that selectors may no longer be considering him for the T20 World Cup next year. Mathews, who retired from Test cricket earlier this year, remains available for white-ball formats.

With Dunith Wellalage included alongside Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, Sri Lanka will head into the tournament with three frontline spin options.

Sri Lanka, who were runners-up in the 2023 Asia Cup and champions in 2022, will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on September 13.

Sri Lanka squad for Asia Cup 2025:

Charith Asalanka (capt), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana.