Sri Lanka’s star spinner Wanindu Hasaranga was ruled out of the side’s World Cup on Tuesday, a major setback for the Asian Lions ahead of the mega event.

“Wanindu Hasaranga has not been included in the 15-member squad as the player is still in the process of recovering from an injury,” the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said as they announced the squad just two days before ICC’s cut-off date.

Hasaranga’s absence would be a major blow to the 1996 champions as the 26-year-old was the leading wicket-taker in the last two T20 World Cups.

“His recovery will be monitored, and if he is declared fit to play, he will be considered as a replacement in the event of an injury to a squad member during the tournament,” said the SLC

Dasun Shanaka would lead the side, with Kusal Mendis as his deputy.

Hasaranga was also ruled out of the Asia Cup in which Sri Lanka were the runner-up. The leg-spinner sustained a thigh strain during last month’s playoffs of the Lankan Premier League.

Earlier, SLC medical panel chief Arjuna de Silva told the Sunday Times newspaper that Hasaranga was doubtful for the World Cup. He warned that the spinner would be out for at least three months if needed any surgery.

Bowling allrounder Chamika Karunaratne has been kept as travelling reserve in the 15-member squad.

Sri Lanka Squad: Dasun Shanaka (c), Kusal Mendis (vc), Kusal Perera, Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, Lahiru Kumara, Dilshan Madushanka