Wanindu Hasaranga Returns as Sri Lanka Gear Up for Asia Cup 2025
Sri Lanka’s cricket fans finally have something to cheer about—Wanindu Hasaranga, the star all-rounder and match-winner, has been recalled to the national squad for the upcoming Asia Cup. His return had been in doubt for weeks because of a hamstring injury he picked up back in July against Bangladesh. Since then, he had been sidelined from competitive cricket, and many wondered whether he would be fit in time. Now, with the selectors officially naming him in the 16-member squad, there’s renewed optimism in the Sri Lankan camp.
The team will be led by Charith Asalanka, who steps into a crucial role during this high-stakes tournament. What stands out immediately about the squad is how spin-heavy it looks. Alongside Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, and ambidextrous spinner Kamindu Mendis have all been included, giving Sri Lanka a wide variety of spin options. In conditions like those in the UAE, this could be a masterstroke, as spinners often dictate the outcome of games there.
Of course, balance in the squad is key. The selectors have also ensured the presence of seam-bowling all-rounders Dasun Shanaka and Chamika Karunaratne, while the pace attack is bolstered by the likes of Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, and the experienced left-armer Binura Fernando. This gives Asalanka plenty of options to rotate his bowlers depending on the match situation.
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Batting, however, remains the area that critics continue to point out. While Sri Lanka might not have the raw power-hitters that some other teams boast, they do have reliable names in Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and Kamil Mishara. Asalanka himself is expected to play a key role with the bat. Their head coach, Sanath Jayasuriya, will be counting on this group to adapt quickly, especially if the surfaces in Dubai and Abu Dhabi begin favoring spin as expected.
Fans will remember that the last time the Asia Cup was played in the T20 format in the UAE, Sri Lanka defied all odds to beat Pakistan in the final, lifting the trophy in spectacular fashion. That victory was one of the country’s most memorable moments in recent years, and naturally, expectations are high for a repeat performance.
This edition of the Asia Cup begins on September 9, with Afghanistan facing Hong Kong in the opener. Sri Lanka, however, will only enter the tournament on September 13, taking on their familiar rivals Bangladesh. Over the years, matches between these two sides have produced plenty of drama, and given the recent history, sparks can be expected once again.
Sri Lanka has been placed in Group B, which also features Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Hong Kong. The top two sides from each group will advance to the Super 4 stage, and from there, the best two will battle it out in the final in Dubai on September 28.
For now, though, all eyes are on Hasaranga’s comeback. His presence adds experience, flair, and balance to the side, and Sri Lanka’s chances of defending their title look a lot brighter with him back in the mix.
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