Sri Lanka Announce T20I Squad For Asia Cup 2025, Wanindu Hasaranga Returns

The roar of Sri Lankan cricket is set to echo once more across the continent. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has unveiled its 16-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, a team that blends youthful energy and seasoned campaigners in pursuit of what would be their record-extending seventh continental crown.

The announcement, made just weeks before the competition, has ignited anticipation among fans. The side will be led by Charith Asalanka, the composed middle-order batter whose tactical nous and calm demeanor have made him the new face of Sri Lankan leadership. His first major assignment as full-time T20I captain could not be bigger: leading the reigning champions in the most fiercely contested cricketing tournament of Asia.

Hasaranga Returns: A Game-Changer in Spin-Friendly Conditions

Perhaps the most talked-about inclusion is the return of Wanindu Hasaranga, Sri Lanka’s premier leg-spinning all-rounder. Injuries had kept him on the sidelines in recent series, raising concerns about his fitness. But SLC confirmed he is fit and firing for the Asia Cup, much to the relief of fans and teammates alike.

Hasaranga’s presence changes the dynamics of any T20I contest. With the ball, he brings wicket-taking flair in the middle overs, capable of breaking partnerships when opposition batters settle in. With the bat, his fearless stroke play at No. 7 or 8 gives Sri Lanka late-order firepower. In tournaments staged in the subcontinent, where pitches often favor spinners, Hasaranga’s impact could prove decisive.

“We’ve missed him dearly, but to have him back at the Asia Cup is a massive boost. Wanindu is a proven match-winner and adds that X-factor we need in tight situations,” said a senior team official.

Charith Asalanka: A New Era of Leadership

Leadership transitions are never easy, especially in cricket-mad Sri Lanka, where captains often bear the weight of national expectation. In 2025, the mantle has fallen on Charith Asalanka, a left-handed batter known for his composure in run chases and ability to absorb pressure.

Still only 27, Asalanka has already earned a reputation as Sri Lanka’s crisis man. His unbeaten knock in the 2022 T20 World Cup against Bangladesh remains etched in memory as a masterclass in calm batting under pressure. Now, as captain, his task is greater: to unify a team of seasoned performers and emerging talents.

His leadership style contrasts with past Sri Lankan captains. Where Dasun Shanaka was known for his aggressive instincts and flamboyance, Asalanka is measured, strategic, and quietly authoritative. For a side aiming for consistency, his temperament could be the anchor.

Experience Meets Youth: A Balanced 16

The squad announcement highlighted a clear strategy: blend established campaigners with young prospects ready for the big stage. Let’s break down the squad across departments.

Batting Core: Dependability and Firepower

Kusal Mendis (wk): The wicketkeeper-batter has been in red-hot form across formats, often providing rapid starts in the powerplay. His dual role behind the stumps makes him indispensable.
Pathum Nissanka: Sri Lanka’s most technically sound opener, Nissanka’s consistency at the top has been a pillar of recent success. He’s the foil to Mendis’ aggression.
Kusal Perera: A veteran presence, Perera’s attacking instincts and experience in crunch games add a different dimension to the top order.
Kamil Mishara & Nuwanidu Fernando: The selectors have rewarded two promising names. Mishara, a stylish left-hander, and Nuwanidu, known for his adaptability, represent the future of Sri Lankan batting.

Together, this mix ensures Sri Lanka have both stability and explosiveness at the top and middle order.

All-Round Options: Depth in Every Department

Dasun Shanaka: Once captain, now a senior statesman, Shanaka remains a vital all-rounder. His power-hitting at the death and medium pace give Sri Lanka much-needed balance.
Kamindu Mendis: A versatile cricketer who can bat anywhere in the order and bowl part-time spin. His flexibility gives Asalanka tactical breathing room.
Chamika Karunaratne: Another seam-bowling all-rounder, Karunaratne thrives under pressure. Known for his energy and finishing ability, he brings grit and character to the squad.
Wanindu Hasaranga: The centerpiece of the all-round department, Hasaranga’s dual skills make him Sri Lanka’s most valuable player.
Dunith Wellalage: Young, fearless, and already making waves, Wellalage’s left-arm spin and lower-order batting continue Sri Lanka’s tradition of nurturing spin-bowling all-rounders.

This cluster of multi-skilled cricketers is arguably Sri Lanka’s biggest strength — ensuring they rarely look unbalanced in team combinations.

Spin Attack: The Arsenal of Variety

Spin has long been Sri Lanka’s weapon of choice in Asia, and the 2025 squad reflects that heritage.

Wanindu Hasaranga (leg-spin) – attacking, wicket-taking option.
Maheesh Theekshana (mystery spin) – control in the powerplay with his carrom balls and variations.
Dunith Wellalage (left-arm orthodox) – changes angles, keeps batters guessing.

This trio offers three different spin styles, a luxury few teams can boast. In Sharjah, Lahore, and Dhaka conditions — where turn is inevitable — they could be match-winners.

Pace Battery: Speed, Swing, and Experience

Matheesha Pathirana: Dubbed “Baby Malinga” for his slingy action, Pathirana’s death-bowling expertise has already made him a franchise cricket star. His yorkers could be Sri Lanka’s key weapon at the back end.
Dushmantha Chameera: The most experienced pacer, Chameera provides new-ball leadership and has the ability to strike early.
Nuwan Thushara: Another unorthodox quick, Thushara brings variation and unpredictability, often foxing batters with his angles.
Binura Fernando: The tall left-armer adds variety and swing to the pace unit, especially effective in the powerplay.

This pace quartet, when combined with all-rounders like Shanaka and Karunaratne, gives Asalanka multiple seam-bowling options.

Group B: The Roadmap to Glory

Sri Lanka will contest the Asia Cup 2025 in Group B, alongside:

Bangladesh (September 13 – opening clash)
Afghanistan
Hong Kong

The opener against Bangladesh carries extra spice. The two sides have developed a fierce rivalry in recent years, with memorable Asia Cup clashes producing high drama and heated exchanges. Starting their campaign with a win could give Sri Lanka momentum for the rest of the group stage.

Afghanistan pose a unique challenge, especially with their spin-heavy attack that mirrors Sri Lanka’s own. Rashid Khan vs Hasaranga will be one of the contests to watch.

Hong Kong, though underdogs, cannot be underestimated. Their fearless batting in qualifiers has earned respect, and they will be motivated to upset a giant.

Why This Squad Can Go the Distance

Experience in Big Tournaments: With players like Shanaka, Perera, and Chameera, Sri Lanka have individuals who’ve thrived under continental pressure.
Spin-Friendly Conditions: Few teams can match Sri Lanka’s variety of spin options — a key advantage on Asian tracks.
All-Round Depth: The presence of five genuine all-rounders gives unmatched flexibility in team combinations.
A Calm Captain: Asalanka’s steady leadership is expected to bring consistency, avoiding the volatility of past Sri Lankan campaigns.

The Legacy at Stake

Sri Lanka are already the most successful side in Asia Cup history, with six titles (1986, 1997, 2004, 2008, 2014, and 2022). Winning a seventh in 2025 would further cement their reputation as the kings of Asian cricket.

More importantly, it would signal the revival of a side often seen as underdogs in global tournaments. A strong Asia Cup could also boost confidence ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The Final Word

The announcement of Sri Lanka’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025 feels like the unveiling of a new era. With Asalanka at the helm, Hasaranga’s return, and a blend of seasoned fighters and hungry youngsters, the island nation has built a team capable of challenging anyone.

Group B will test their resilience, but Sri Lanka enter as defending champions with momentum on their side. The mission is clear: win, and lift a seventh Asia Cup crown to remind the world that Sri Lanka remains a force in Asian cricket.

As fans await September 13 with bated breath, one thing is certain — this team, if it plays to its potential, could script yet another glorious chapter in Sri Lanka’s cricketing history.

Please check for information on the best betting sites in India – https://selectory.org/best-betting-sites/