T20 World Cup: Wanindu Hasaranga to lead Sri Lanka; injured Pathirana, Madhushanka also named in squad

Sri Lanka have officially named their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with notable inclusions such as pacer Matheesha Pathirana and the team's captain Wanindu Hasaranga, both of whom are returning from injuries. Matheesha Pathirana, currently recuperating from a hamstring issue, was part of this announcement. The young pacer had to withdraw from the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season due to his injury.

Representing Chennai Super Kings, Pathirana was sidelined after May 5 when his injury flared up, prompting his return to Colombo to begin his rehabilitation. Despite his brief stint in the IPL, where he played only six matches, he made a significant impact by taking 13 wickets with an impressive economy rate of 7.68.

Pathirana's injury first emerged during Sri Lanka's T20I series in Bangladesh in March, highlighting the recurring challenges he has faced this season. Accompanying him in the recovery journey and selection is Dilshan Madhushanka, another left-arm pacer who has also overcome a hamstring injury. Madhushanka, who was supposed to play for Mumbai Indians in the IPL, missed out due to his injury and was replaced by South African pacer Kwena Maphaka.

The leadership of the squad will be in the hands of Wanindu Hasaranga, who himself is making a comeback from a chronic heel injury. Hasaranga's condition had previously prevented him from participating in the IPL this year. He was picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs 1.5 crore following his release from Royal Challengers Bengaluru after the IPL 2023 season.

Sri Lanka squad: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madhushanka.

Travelling reserves: Asitha Fernando, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage.

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(With PTI inputs)