Wanindu Hasaranga fit for Asia Cup 2025 as Sri Lanka announce strong 16-member squad
Sri Lanka have received a massive boost ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 as their star leg-spinning all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga has been declared fit and included in the 16-member squad. Hasaranga, who missed the recent T20I series against Zimbabwe due to a hamstring injury, has now recovered and is set to play a key role in the UAE-based tournament. Wanindu Hasaranga fit for Asia Cup 2025
Hasaranga’s injury and comeback
The 27-year-old suffered a hamstring injury during Sri Lanka’s home series against Bangladesh earlier this year. His absence was felt heavily in the team’s bowling attack, which looked less threatening without his wicket-taking ability in the middle overs. Hasaranga was not part of the squad against Zimbabwe, but the selectors were hopeful he would regain full fitness in time for the Asia Cup. Wanindu Hasaranga fit for Asia Cup 2025
That hope has turned into reality, and the announcement of his inclusion has sparked excitement among Sri Lankan fans. Known for his sharp leg-spin, variations, and ability to contribute with the bat, Hasaranga’s return adds balance and depth to the squad. Wanindu Hasaranga fit for Asia Cup 2025
Squad changes from the Zimbabwe series
Compared to the squad named for the Zimbabwe series, there are two notable changes. Hasaranga has replaced Dushan Hemantha, while uncapped batter Vishen Halambage has been left out.
From the side that lost to Bangladesh at home, Sri Lanka have made four changes. Senior players Avishka Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Eshan Malinga have been left out. Their replacements include young talents Nuwanidu Fernando and Kamil Mishara, fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera, and returning all-rounder Chamika Karunaratne. Wanindu Hasaranga fit for Asia Cup 2025
Strength in spin department
Sri Lanka’s selectors have focused on building a strong spin department for the Asia Cup. With Hasaranga back in action, the team now has three high-quality spin options – Maheesh Theekshana with his mystery off-spin, Dunith Wellalage with his left-arm spin, and Hasaranga with his attacking leg-spin.
This spin trio is expected to be Sri Lanka’s biggest weapon in the UAE, where slow pitches often assist spinners. Hasaranga’s partnership with Theekshana in particular has proven to be highly effective in T20 cricket.
Seam bowling options
The seam attack also looks balanced, with Dushmantha Chameera returning to lead the pace battery. He will be supported by Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, and young Matheesha Pathirana, who has been making waves in international cricket with his yorker accuracy. Wanindu Hasaranga fit for Asia Cup 2025
Chamika Karunaratne’s recall also gives the side a seam-bowling all-rounder option, while skipper Dasun Shanaka himself provides additional medium-pace support. Wanindu Hasaranga fit for Asia Cup 2025
Batting unit reshaped
On the batting front, Sri Lanka have put their trust in a mix of experience and youth. Charith Asalanka, who will captain the side, is joined by reliable performers like Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Kusal Perera.
Younger players like Nuwanidu Fernando and Kamil Mishara have been drafted in, signaling the selectors’ intent to groom future stars. Kamindu Mendis also remains part of the squad, offering flexibility in the middle order.
The absence of senior batter Angelo Mathews confirms that the selectors are not considering him for the T20 World Cup next year. Although Mathews retired from Test cricket earlier in 2025, he had kept himself available for white-ball cricket. However, his omission suggests Sri Lanka are looking towards a younger core for the future.
Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup history
Sri Lanka are among the most successful teams in Asia Cup history. They won the 2022 edition and reached the final in 2023 before losing to India. Their consistency in multi-nation tournaments has often been impressive, and with Hasaranga’s return, they will once again aim to challenge the stronger teams.
The Asia Cup 2025 will be crucial not only for regional supremacy but also as preparation for the T20 World Cup next year. Teams will use the tournament to finalize their best combinations, and Sri Lanka will hope their blend of youth and experience can deliver. Wanindu Hasaranga fit for Asia Cup 2025
Sri Lanka’s first match
Sri Lanka begin their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against Bangladesh on September 13. It will be a crucial clash, as both teams have been neck-and-neck in white-ball cricket over the last few years. Bangladesh recently defeated Sri Lanka at home, and the Islanders will be looking for revenge on the bigger stage.
Full Sri Lanka squad for Asia Cup 2025
-
Charith Asalanka (captain)
-
Pathum Nissanka
-
Kusal Mendis
-
Kusal Perera
-
Nuwanidu Fernando
-
Kamindu Mendis
-
Kamil Mishara
-
Dasun Shanaka
-
Wanindu Hasaranga
-
Dunith Wellalage
-
Chamika Karunaratne
-
Maheesh Theekshana
-
Dushmantha Chameera
-
Binura Fernando
-
Nuwan Thushara
-
Matheesha Pathirana
Wanindu Hasaranga’s return could not have come at a better time for Sri Lanka. His fitness boosts the team’s confidence and gives the squad a world-class match-winner in both bowling and batting. Wanindu Hasaranga fit for Asia Cup 2025
If Sri Lanka’s young batters can step up and the bowlers support Hasaranga effectively, the Islanders may well repeat their Asia Cup 2022 heroics and lift the trophy once again in 2025.
