Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026 due to THIS reason
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Sri Lanka will play their next match against Oman on February 12.
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is underway, with Sri Lanka co-hosting the tournament and aiming to capitalize on home conditions and their spin-heavy attack to challenge for the title.
The Lankan Lions started strongly, securing a convincing win over Ireland in their opening match in Colombo, where their spinners dominated on spin-friendly pitches.
Key performers included batters like Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis, while the spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana was expected to be central to their campaign, especially after Sri Lanka showed promising signs in bilaterals since then.
Big blow for Sri Lanka as Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of the World Cup
However, Sri Lanka have suffered a massive blow with star all-rounder and leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga being ruled out of the remainder of the tournament. The injury occurred during the Ireland game on February 8, when Hasaranga felt discomfort in his hamstring after bowling just two deliveries.
Despite the issue, he bravely continued his full four-over spell, claiming an impressive 3/25 to derail Ireland’s chase and help secure victory.
In the process, he surpassed Lasith Malinga’s record to become Sri Lanka’s leading wicket-taker in T20 World Cup history with 40 wickets from 20 matches. An MRI scan conducted after the match revealed a serious tear in his left hamstring, confirming the need for several weeks of rehabilitation.
This is a recurring problem for Hasaranga, who has a history of hamstring issues, including a Grade 3 tear that sidelined him from the 2023 ODI World Cup and prior surgeries, including a minor one in January 2026. He will not travel with the squad to Kandy for their upcoming match and awaits further specialist review, possibly in the UK.
Sri Lanka are set to request ICC approval for a replacement under tournament rules, with legspinner and bowling all-rounder Dushan Hemantha expected to step in as the like-for-like substitute.
This absence severely dents Sri Lanka’s ambitions, as Hasaranga’s mystery spin, batting firepower, and wicket-taking ability are irreplaceable on turning tracks.
How did Wanindu Hasaranga get injured?
Hasaranga suffered a left hamstring injury during Sri Lanka’s opening match against Ireland, feeling discomfort after bowling only two deliveries.
Will Hasaranga play any further matches in the tournament?
No, MRI scans confirmed a serious tear, ruling him out of the remainder of the World Cup.
Who is likely to replace Hasaranga in the squad?
Sri Lanka are expected to request International Cricket Council approval to bring in Dushan Hemantha as a like-for-like replacement.
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Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.