Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out of Sri Lanka’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand due to a left hamstring injury. Hasaranga sustained the injury while bowling in the second T20I on Sunday, where he was seen struggling with his movement, limping between wickets and during his later overs. His absence will be a blow for Sri Lanka, as he had been their standout bowler in the T20I series, taking 2 for 20 in the first match and 4 for 17 in the second. He also contributed with the bat, scoring an important 22 runs in the first T20I.
To replace Hasaranga in the ODI squad, Dushan Hemantha has been called up. Hemantha, another legspin-bowling allrounder, has played five ODIs and has been in good form recently with Sri Lanka A, taking wickets and showing promise.
Hasaranga’s injury leaves Sri Lanka with limited options, but they still have legspinner Jeffrey Vandersay in the squad, alongside Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage as other frontline spinners. Sri Lanka will now need to adjust their bowling strategy for the ODI series, which begins on Wednesday in Dambulla. The remaining two matches will take place in Pallekele.
Hasaranga’s injury comes after New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson was ruled out of the series due to a calf injury sustained in the second T20I. With both teams missing key players, the series is set to be closely contested.
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