Wanindu Hasaranga misses out as Sri Lanka name T20I squad for Zimbabwe tour

Sri Lanka has announced a 17-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe in Harare, with key all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga absent due to a hamstring injury suffered during a T20I series against Bangladesh in July. The team, led by Charith Asalanka, will play two ODIs and three T20Is in Zimbabwe, beginning with the first ODI on Friday.Hasaranga's absence also raises questions about his participation in the upcoming Asia Cup, as he hasn't played at any level since early July.In the spin department, Sri Lanka has turned to Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage to fill the gap left by Hasaranga's absence.Fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana has earned a spot in the T20I squad after being left out of the ODI selection.The squad features experienced players including Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, and Dasun Shanaka.Sri Lanka enters this series following a 2-1 ODI series victory against Bangladesh last month. This marks their first white-ball tour to Zimbabwe since November 2008.Following the Zimbabwe series, Sri Lanka will participate in the Asia Cup, scheduled in the United Arab Emirates from September 9-28.The complete Sri Lanka T20I squad includes Charith Asalanka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Vishen Halambage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, and Matheesha Pathirana.The series schedule comprises two ODIs on August 29 and 31, followed by three T20Is on September 3, 6, and 7, all matches to be played in Harare.