Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of T20 World Cup due to hamstring injury

Sri Lanka have suffered a huge blow as their star player Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2026 due to a hamstring injury. The leg-spin all-rounder sustained the injury during the team's first match against Ireland on Sunday, February 8. Subsequently on Monday, the 28-year-old underwent an MRI scan which revealed a tear in his left hamstring. The report was referred to a specialist in the UK following which Hasaranga was ruled out.

The leg spinner was a key contributor to Sri Lanka's 20-run victory against Ireland, picking up three wickets for 25 runs in his four overs. Though the right-armer had been underperforming in recent times, having a player of his skills and experience was critical for the co-hosts success in the tournament. As a matter of fact, Hasaranga has 40 scalps to his name in 20 innings in T20 World Cups. The wily leg spinner's economy rate of 6.01 is a remarkable achievement in a tournament where run-scoring is quick.

As per reports, Dushan Hemantha who is also a leg-spin all-rounder is likely to replace Hasaranga in the squad. Hemantha has played only three T20Is, picking up four wickets. The 31-year-old was part of the team's tour to Zimbabwe which is where he played all of his three matches. If the all-rounder is added to the squad it is expected he would make the XI right away as there are no other spinners in the reserves.

Sri Lanka face Oman on February 12

The co-hosts will be up against the Omanis on Thursday, February 12 in Pallekele. Sri Lanka will be confident of crossing the line without much of a hassle given how their opponents performed against Zimbabwe in their opener.

The Lankans would be happy with the form of their batters and the spinners who guided the team to an eventual, comfortable win against Ireland. However, it remains to be seen how the Pallekele wicket behaves as the match against Oman will be the first at the venue in this tournament.