Sri Lanka announce squad for Asia Cup 2025, Wanindu Hasaranga finds place despite injury concerns

Sri Lanka announce 16-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup, slated to begin on September 9. Wanindu Hasaranga, who was rested in the Zimbabwe series due to injury concerns, has found a place in the Asia Cup squad. However, it needs to be seen if the all-rounder is fit for the group stage or makes himself available for the Super 4 of the tournament. Though the latter is subject to Sri Lanka’s qualification.

The Lankan Lions are in group B of the marquee tournament. Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong are part of the same group and hence, intense competition is expected for the qualification.

Chamika Karunaratne, Kamil Mishara, and Nuwanidu Fernando are expected to play pivotal roles in the middle order, offering flexibility and stability in the batting department, which bothered the team in the recent past. Their ability to adapt under pressure will be key as Sri Lanka looks to navigate through a competitive group stage. With the Asia Cup serving as a crucial test ahead of major ICC events, these players have a prime opportunity to cement their places in the national setup.

On the bowling front, Sri Lanka has assembled a dynamic attack led by Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, and Matheesha Pathirana, whose raw pace and variations could trouble even the best of batters. Binura Fernando’s left-arm angle and clever change-ups add another dimension to the pace unit. Spin is expected to play a major role on the UAE’s turning tracks, with frontline options Maheesh Theekshana, Hasaranga, and Dunith Wellalage offering variety, control, and wicket-taking threat through the middle overs.

Sri Lanka squad for Asia Cup 2025:

Charith Asalanka (C), Kusal Mendis (WK), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Nuwanidu Fernando, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando