Star spin all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga was a notable omission from the Sri Lanka playing XI for the 1st ZIM vs SL T20I match today (September 3). Notably, the teams are currently locking horns in a three-match T20I series after the completion of the two-match ODI leg which the Islanders won 2-0.
As for Hasaranga, the 28-year-old is absent from the lineup since he is currently suffering from a hamstring injury that he incurred during the Bangladesh series earlier in July. Hasaranga, who played a pivotal role in the first ODI against Bangladesh inflicting a record collapse by taking a four-wicket haul, picked up the injury during the final ODI. This also ruled him out of the following three-match T20I series against the Bangla Tigers and subsequently wasn’t named for the Zimbabwe tour.
With Hasaranga sidelined, Sri Lanka will look to the likes of Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage to fill the void in their spin department after the pair were included in the 17-player squad for Zimbabwe series.
ZIM Playing XI: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani(w), Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza(c), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Tinotenda Maposa, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani
SL Playing XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Charith Asalanka(c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara
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With the star spinner not playing in the last series before the Asia Cup 2025, there were strong speculations regarding his availability for the upcoming continental tournament. However, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) put all doubts to rest by naming him in the squad for the multi-team event but it is yet to be seen if and when he returns to the field.
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