The Sri Lankan team have got a big boost before the start of the Asia Cup 2025. Wanindu Hasaranga, who has been struggling with injury for a long time, has returned fit and has been given a place in the 16-man squad. A hamstring injury during the ODI series against Bangladesh in July kept him away from the field. For the same reason, he was also out of the T20I series and the Zimbabwe tour. The team management was constantly hoping that he would return for the Asia Cup and the upcoming T20 World Cup.
In Hasaranga's absence, the selectors had done many experiments. Youngsters like Vishen Halambage and Dushan Hemantha were given opportunities. However, it was clearly visible that the team was lacking experience and all-round options. Now with Hasaranga's return, the balance of the team looks strong once again.
This time, many changes have been seen from the team that played against Bangladesh last time. Dinesh Chandimal, Avishka Fernando, Jeffrey Vandersay and Eshan Malinga have been dropped from the squad. In their place, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara and Chamika Karunaratne have been included. This will not only give the team depth in batting but will also increase seamer options.
This time, the captaincy of the team will be in the hands of Charith Asalanka. The responsibility of opening will be on Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis and Kusal Perera. Dushmantha Chameera will lead the fast bowling along with Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara and Binura Fernando. At the same time, the pair of Mahesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage will be seen with Wanindu Hasaranga in the spin department.
Sri Lanka will face Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong in Group B. The team will play their first match against Bangladesh on 13 September in Abu Dhabi. After this, they will face Afghanistan in Dubai on 16 September and will play the last match of the group stage against Hong Kong in Abu Dhabi on 18 September. Before the tournament, Sri Lanka also have to play a white-ball series against Zimbabwe. Hasaranga's return has given new energy to the squad, and now all eyes will be on how far this balanced team goes in the Asia Cup.
