Sri Lanka’s key players are facing injury problems ahead of the ODI series against India: As the much-anticipated ODI series between Sri Lanka and India approaches, the host nation finds itself battling a major injury crisis. The absence of key pacers Mathisha Pathirana and Dilshan Madushanka in the three-match series starting August 2 in Colombo has caught everyone’s attention, with both of them ruled out due to injury.
Injuries and impact of key players
After hurting his right shoulder diving to grab a catch, Mathisha Pathirana, who had a fantastic season in the last T20 series with five wickets at an amazing average of 11.6 (bowling against Australia), is out of the ODI series. With his propensity for making big breakthroughs, Pathirana was supposed to be the mainstay of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack in the One-Day Internationals.
Dilshan Madushanka, another integral part of the fast bowling unit, is out with a Grade 2 hamstring injury sustained during fielding practice. Madushanka’s absence further weakens Sri Lanka’s bowling options, after he performed well in the T20I series opener against India.
Team changes
In response to these setbacks, Sri Lanka have called up uncapped right-arm pacers Mohammed Shiraz and Ishan Malinga to fill the gaps left by Pathirana and Madushanka. In addition, Kusal Janith Perera, Pramod Madushan and Jeffrey Vandersay have been called up to the squad as standby players to strengthen the squad’s depth.
Injury problems for Sri Lanka began even before the series, with Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara also unavailable. Chameera is recovering from bronchitis and a respiratory infection, while Thushara is battling a thumb fracture. The absence of these key players poses a major challenge for the Sri Lankan team.
IND vs SL ODI Series context
India is entering the ODI series with high confidence after sweeping the T20I series 3-0. The Indian team, which has a strong lineup, will look to continue their impressive performance. For Sri Lanka, this series provides an opportunity to regroup and show resilience despite injuries.
Sri Lanka ODI Updated Squads
Squad: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Nishan Madushka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Akila Dananjaya, Mohamed Shiraz, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Eshan Malinga
Standby players: Kusal Janith Perera, Pramod Madushan, Jeffrey Vandersay
Also Read: India vs Sri Lanka: 3 Indian Youngsters to watch out for upcoming ODI series
Source: ICC
