In a significant development, Sri Lanka have called up young spinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth amid ongoing injury concerns surrounding star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed the 23-year-old’s inclusion for the upcoming T20I tri-series through an official press release.
The decision comes at a crucial time, with Sri Lanka looking to stabilise their squad ahead of a tightly packed series. With Zimbabwe joining as the third team, the tri-series is expected to serve as an important preparation phase as the Lankans look to regain rhythm in the shortest format.
Hasaranga has yet to fully recover from a hamstring issue he picked up during the ODI series against Pakistan. As his rehabilitation continues, selectors have opted for Viyaskanth, who has impressed in domestic cricket and brings a fresh leg-spin option to the squad.
Viyaskanth, a promising spinner from Jaffna, has played one T20I for Sri Lanka, taking one wicket for 28 runs in his four overs. His call-up comes as Sri Lanka deal with the potential absence of Hasaranga, who played a key role in the ODI series against Pakistan, scoring 96 runs and taking three wickets in the first two matches.
Hasaranga’s injury is undoubtedly a setback for Sri Lanka as they aim for a strong outing in the tri-series. The squad for the competition includes Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara and Eshan Malinga.
Sri Lanka will kick off their tri-series campaign with an exciting clash against Zimbabwe on November 20. Each team will face the others twice, with the top two qualifying for the final.
