Injury woes worsens Sri Lanka’s troubles

Charith Asalanka made his T20 debut on Sunday but could be ruled out of the series after picking up a hamstring injury.

Hardik Pandya sings SL national anthem and wins hearts

Sri Lanka’s troubles seem to be getting worse by the day and by the looks of it, they may ask fast bowling coach Chaminda Vaas to come out of retirement and share the new ball.

Bowling actually is Sri Lanka’s least concern. Despite losing Binura Fernando, the seamers and spin bowlers have done a decent job. However, they have lost too many batsmen in this series and they might be forced to recall additional batters for the final game on Thursday from the second bubble in Dambulla where the ‘A’ team is training.

With half a dozen seniors not considered and three leading batsmen being suspended, Sri Lanka suffered a further blow when Kusal Perera pulled out with a shoulder injury.

Yesterday Charith Asalanka was rushed to hospital for a scan after complaining of hamstring pain. He is doubtful for today’s game. Former Richmond College star and Sri Lanka Under-19 captain has impressed this series.

Bhanuka Rajapaksa entered the bubble having made much noise but he seems to be barely fit to last a week and has been ruled out after posting a maiden half-century in the dead rubber on Friday, a game that Sri Lanka went onto win.

Pathum Nissanka is also on the mend after being hit on the hand during a net session on Sunday. He too remains doubtful.

This could be a blessing in disguise as it means Sadeera Samarawickrama gets a break. An attacking wicket-keeper batsman, Sadeera impressed during the tours of UAE and Pakistan in 2017 but has not got a look in since then. With the right kind of attitude and Sangakkara like work ethic, he could go places if he is given an extended break.

Meanwhile India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has won over many local fans after being seen on camera singing the Sri Lankan national anthem. Earlier, Pandya had gifted one of his bats to all-rounder Chamika Karunaratne.

Although Pandya has not got going this series, he is feared by the Sri Lankans after making a Test hundred on debut at Pallekele in 2017.