Madushanka latest casualty in Sri Lanka’s increasing list of Asia Cup injuries

With the Asia Cup fast approaching Sri Lanka’s list of injured players seems to be increasing in their numbers.

The latest casualty is left-arm fast-medium bowler Dilshan Madushanka who is set to miss the tournament with a rib tear and has been asked to rest.

Madushanka is learnt to have suffered the injury during the Lanka Premier League while representing Jaffna Kings.  

Already fast bowlers Dushmantha Chameera (shoulder), Lahiru Kumara (side strain) and leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga (hamstring) have been ruled out with injuries and batsman Kusal Perera’s participation hinges on him getting tested negative after being tested COVID-19 positive. Perera underwent a test on Sunday and it turned out positive.

Sri Lanka are keeping their options open until the first game against Bangladesh at Pallekele on 31 August.

In case Perera does not make it to the 15, batting all-rounder Sahan Arachchige will be the standby for him.   

The injured bowlers are replaced by Dushan Hemantha, Kasun Rajitha, Pramod Madushan, Binura Fernando and Nuwan Thushara (or Asitha Fernando).

Sri Lanka are due to leave for Pakistan on 1 September and will have three days of practice at Lahore before their second match against Afghanistan on 5 September.

They are hoping to name a couple more fast bowlers as cover in case there are more injuries.

Sri Lanka are the only country of the six taking part in the Asia Cup who has not officially announced their squad. - (ST)