Injury blow for Sri Lanka as Dushan Hemantha replace Wanindu Hasaranga for NZ ODIs

Sri Lanka faces a significant setback as key spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand due to a hamstring injury. In response, the Sri Lankan cricket board has brought in Dushan Hemantha as Hasaranga's replacement, hoping to maintain a strong spin lineup for the home series. Hasaranga’s injury has impacted the team’s strategy, especially given his recent impressive performance in the T20I series against the Kiwis.

Hasaranga's injury and replacement announcement

Wanindu Hasaranga, who picked up a left hamstring injury while bowling in the second T20I against New Zealand, will miss the ODI series scheduled to start on November 13. Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed that Hasaranga has already returned to Colombo to begin injury rehabilitation at the High Performance Center. Following this development, the board swiftly named Dushan Hemantha as his replacement, a promising option for maintaining spin depth against a formidable New Zealand lineup.

Sri Lanka’s skipper Charith Asalanka also confirmed Hasaranga’s absence in a post-match press conference, adding, “Wanindu Hasaranga will miss the ODI series, but I think Kusal Mendis will be ready to play one day.” Asalanka's statement hints at further strategic adjustments the team may have to consider, especially with Hasaranga’s role as a top-performing all-rounder.

Impact of Hasaranga’s absence and his recent form

Hasaranga’s unavailability is a considerable blow to Sri Lanka, as he was in excellent form in the T20I series, where he took six wickets and claimed the Player of the Series title. His presence on the field has been instrumental in Sri Lanka’s recent performances, particularly against New Zealand, where his economical bowling and wicket-taking ability placed him among the standout players. Hasaranga himself expressed disappointment about his injury following the T20 series, sharing, “I wanted to bowl my four overs to cut down their total. I can’t run, so I tried to maximize with the bat, but I got out.”

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As a highly skilled bowler with years of experience, Hasaranga’s absence will require Sri Lanka’s team management to adapt quickly, with Hemantha expected to shoulder additional responsibility in the spin department. Hemantha, known for his strong leg-spin, will have an opportunity to prove his capability in a high-stakes series.

Sri Lanka vs. New Zealand ODI schedule

The three-match ODI series between Sri Lanka and New Zealand begins on November 13 at Dambulla, with the second and third ODIs set to take place on November 17 and November 19 in Pallekele. With Hemantha now part of the squad, Sri Lanka hopes to maintain their competitive edge and deliver a strong performance despite the absence of Hasaranga.