The wait is over—Sri Lanka’s star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga makes his comeback. The celebrated all-rounder, who missed the Bangladesh series due to injury, has been called up to Sri Lanka’s 16-man squad for the Asia Cup. Let’s be honest – anytime Hasaranga walks back onto the field, Sri Lanka cricket looks a hell of a lot more dangerous and a heck of a lot more enjoyable too!
The Hasaranga Factor: More Than Just Wickets
It isn’t only the spin that makes him vital; it’s the swagger he carries into every contest. His leg-spin and leg-spin variations have done for some of the world’s best batters; however, he also brings value with his batting lower down the order: he is a player who can change the nature of a game in a couple of overs, whether it be a triple-wicket haul or a cheeky knock with the bat.
The attack managed stability, yet the sting was clearly missing in his absence. With him on board, immediately, Theekshana and Wellalage gain a little respite from being the only spinners. And remember: opposition teams actually plan entire batting templates around “How do we counter Hasaranga?” Sri Lanka desperately needed that sort of ‘problem’ heading into a high-pressure tournament.
Balance and Depth in the Squad
Aside from the Hasaranga headline, this looks like a complete squad. Charith Asalanka is a calming influence in the middle order; he provides tactical flexibility as captain in his first Asia Cup. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis are a strong opening pair, and Kusal Perera’s experience offers depth.
Then there’s the pace attack; with Matheesha Pathirana jabbering pacers and yorkers, Dushmantha Chameera’s raw pace, and Binura Fernando’s left-arm variation, it is an exciting combination. You’ve also got seam-bowling all-rounders Chamika Karunaratne and Dasun Shanaka, who can hit a few, if needed. For me, it is a team – and a squad – with options, and on paper, Sri Lanka will compete with anyone. The question is whether they can get consistent performances to match their squad on the field.
A Legacy to Defend, A Future to Build
Sri Lanka is no stranger to this stage in the Asia Cup; they have lifted the trophy six times—most recently in 2022. That win was a reminder that, even during transitional times, they are still a tournament team. With the T20 World Cup in 2026 on the horizon, this tournament is not just about winning the cup again; it will help instill some momentum, cement combinations, and create opportunities for their young players to get high-pressure experience.
The bigger picture looks obvious: Wanindu Hasaranga’s return could unlock the potential of a talented squad into a genuine threat. And if they can capture a glimpse of that fearless brand of cricket from their glory days, the fans watching in Asia may get a taste of that glory again.
So, here we go again: Sri Lanka comes into the Asia Cup with an expected dose of unpredictability, flair, and a Wanindu-shaped X-factor. The ingredients for success are there, but can they cook up another title run? If Hasaranga remains fit and the batting gets going, the islanders could be capable of yet another surprise.
Do you think Sri Lanka are dark horses in the Asia Cup again, or are they genuine title contenders this year?
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