Sri Lanka have named spin-bowling all-rounder Dushan Hemantha as a replacement for injured Wanindu Hasaranga in their squad for the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Sri Lanka’s spin spearhead was ruled out of the tournament after suffering a hamstring injury during their opening match against Ireland. Despite the setback, Hasaranga completed his four-over spell, returning figures of 3 for 25 while visibly struggling.
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An MRI scan conducted on Monday later revealed a serious tear in his left hamstring, forcing him out of the remainder of the tournament.
The ICC confirmed Hemantha’s inclusion in an official statement.
“The Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has approved Dushan Hemantha as a replacement for Wanindu Hasaranga in the Sri Lanka squad,” the ICC said in a release.
The 31-year-old Hemantha has represented Sri Lanka in five ODIs and three T20Is and will be available for selection starting with their next group-stage match against Oman on Thursday.
The ICC also approved a replacement request for New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell, who sustained a calf injury during warm-ups ahead of their match against Afghanistan on February 8 in Chennai. However, New Zealand are yet to announce his replacement.
As per tournament regulations, all player replacements require approval from the Event Technical Committee (ETC). The ETC for the T20 World Cup includes ICC General Manager Wasim Khan, Gaurav Saxena, Hemang Amin and former South Africa captain Shaun Pollock.
