In a significant blow to Sri Lanka’s preparations for the Asia Cup 2023, their bowling unit is grappling with injuries to key players, raising concerns about their title defence prospects.
Left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka, a crucial member of the team, has been forced to sit out the Asia Cup 2023 due to an injury sustained during a practice game. Madushanka suffered a torn oblique muscle during a practice session on Friday, casting doubts on his availability even for the upcoming World Cup.
Adding to the woes, Wanindu Hasaranga, who had recently earned the Player of the Tournament award in LPL 2023, is battling a grade two thigh strain. Although his potential return to the tournament remains uncertain, his participation in the group stages is in jeopardy.
Sri Lanka’s bowling squad has been hit further by injuries to other key pacers. Dusmantha Chameera, who had impressed during the recent Lanka Premier League, is grappling with a shoulder injury stemming from a prior ankle injury. Lahiru Kumara, another prominent pacer, is sidelined with a side strain injury.
The Sri Lanka Cricket Board is actively seeking replacements for the injured pacers. Among the potential candidates are Kasun Rajitha, Pramod Madushan, and Matheesha Pathirana. However, these replacements lack the experience of Chameera and Kumara, raising concerns about the team’s bowling depth.
In the face of these challenges, the spotlight turns to other players who might step up in the absence of the injured bowlers. Dunith Wellalage, a left-arm spinner, could fill in for Hasaranga if he fails to regain fitness in time. Additionally, the all-rounder Dushan Hemantha might receive a call-up to bolster the team’s resources.
The Sri Lanka Cricket Board is yet to finalize the squad for the Asia Cup 2023. Placed in Group B alongside Bangladesh and Afghanistan, Sri Lanka’s campaign kicks off against Bangladesh on August 31 in Pallekele. As the defending champions, the team, led by Dasun Shanaka, needs to secure a top-two finish in the group stage to progress to the Super 4s.
As the tournament approaches, Sri Lanka’s bowling woes pose a significant challenge, putting their bid to retain the title in jeopardy. The team will need to rely on their remaining resources to navigate through the competition’s hurdles and strive for success once again.