Wanindu Hasaranga, a pivotal figure in Sri Lanka's cricket team, has been ruled out of the 2026 T20 World Cup due to a left hamstring injury, as reported by ESPN Cricinfo and News18. The injury, confirmed by an MRI scan, is a significant setback for the co-hosts, who were relying heavily on Hasaranga's bowling prowess. News18 highlights that Hasaranga's performance in the opening match against Ireland was instrumental, where he took 3/25, helping secure a 20-run victory. His absence is a considerable blow to Sri Lanka's campaign, given his status as the second-highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cup history with 40 wickets. Dushan Hemantha is expected to replace him, though filling Hasaranga's shoes is acknowledged as a daunting task by multiple sources, including abplive and newswire.lk.