The Sri Lankan cricket team has announced its 17-member squad for the three-match T20 series against Zimbabwe, set to commence on September 3rd. The squad sees the return of some experienced players, while star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga is sidelined due to injury.
Sports News: The Sri Lankan cricket team is currently on a tour of Zimbabwe. A two-match ODI series between the two teams will begin on August 29th, followed by a three-match T20 series starting on September 3rd. Sri Lanka has announced a 17-player squad for the T20 series. Wanindu Hasaranga has not been included in this squad as he is out due to injury.
Wanindu Hasaranga's Absence is a Major Blow to the Team
The team will be led by Charith Asalanka. He will also captain Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2025, which begins on September 9th. While the official squad for the Asia Cup has not yet been announced, it is expected that most players from the 17-member T20 series squad will be included. The T20 squad features experienced players such as Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, and Dasun Shanaka.
All these players have performed exceptionally well in limited-overs cricket in recent times and possess the ability to make significant contributions to the team. Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out of this series due to injury. This is considered a major setback for Sri Lanka, as Hasaranga is the team's premier all-rounder and main spinner. His absence may force the team to alter its strategies, and the responsibility will increase on other players.
Star Pacer Makes a Comeback
Fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana has made a return to the T20 squad. He was overlooked for the ODI series against Zimbabwe but has now earned a place in the T20 squad. Pathirana's return will further strengthen Sri Lanka's bowling attack. Sri Lanka's T20 performance this year has been disappointing so far.
In their last T20 series against Bangladesh at home in July 2025, Sri Lanka suffered a 2-1 defeat. Sri Lanka has not won a single T20 series this year. Therefore, the series against Zimbabwe could prove to be an opportunity for the team to improve its form.
Sri Lanka Squad for T20 Series
Charith Asalanka (Captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Vishain Halambage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, and Matheesha Pathirana.
