(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Sri Lanka Announce Squad for Asia Cup 2025 in UAE
August 2025
Sri Lanka have named their 16-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, set to begin next month in the United Arab Emirates.
Wanindu Hasaranga Returns
The biggest boost for the Islanders comes in the form of star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga, who has been included despite carrying a hamstring injury. The leg-spinner missed the recent T20I series against Zimbabwe but selectors are optimistic he will be fit in time. Sri Lanka are scheduled to open their campaign against Bangladesh on September 13.
Hasaranga replaces Dushan Hemantha from the squad that featured against Zimbabwe.
Key Changes in the Squad
Compared to the side that lost to Bangladesh earlier this year, four changes have been made:
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Out: Avishka Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Eshan Malinga
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In: Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamil Mishara, and fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera
Notably, senior all-rounder Angelo Mathews has once again been left out, raising questions about his future in Sri Lanka’s white-ball plans ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Full Squad – Asia Cup 2025
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Charith Asalanka (capt)
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Pathum Nissanka
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Kusal Mendis
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Kusal Perera
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Nuwanidu Fernando
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Kamindu Mendis
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Kamil Mishara
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Dasun Shanaka
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Wanindu Hasaranga
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Dunith Wellalage
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Chamika Karunaratne
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Maheesh Theekshana
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Dushmantha Chameera
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Binura Fernando
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Nuwan Thushara
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Matheesha Pathirana
Recent Form and Hopes
Sri Lanka enter the tournament with mixed recent form but remain one of the most successful sides in Asia Cup history. The six-time champions finished as finalists in 2023 and famously lifted the trophy in 2022 by defeating Pakistan in Dubai.
With a blend of youth and experience, the Islanders will be aiming for another strong run in this year’s competition.
