The co-hosts, Sri Lanka ia facing a tough time as their premier match-winner, Wanindu Hasaranga, is reportedly set to miss the remainder of the T20 World Cup 2026. Despite a stellar opening performance where he claimed 3/25 to dismantle Ireland, the star leg-spinner aggravated a recurring hamstring injury that has previously required multiple surgeries. 

Reports suggest the injury flared up during his spell in Colombo, leaving the Sri Lankan camp in a race against time to finalize a replacement, with all-rounder Dushan Hemantha already on standby to fill the massive void left by the world's most dangerous T20 bowler.