Sri Lanka will have a task at hand to break into the next round and go for the win.
Defending champions Sri Lanka have been dealt a significant blow ahead of the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2023. Several key players from their first-team squad have either been ruled out or are likely to miss the initial few games, including star seamer Dushmantha Chameera and Wanindu Hasaranga. Additionally, top-order batters Kusal Perera and Avishka Fernando may also remain out of contention for an undisclosed period.
Chameera, a talented right-arm seamer, sustained a shoulder injury during the recently concluded Lanka Premier League (LPL). The pace spearhead's last appearance in an ODI was on June 7 against Afghanistan, where he showcased his skills by taking four wickets for 63 runs. Unfortunately, he was unable to participate in the World Cup Qualifiers due to an injury sustained during the tournament warm-ups. According to the latest reports, Chameera's absence from the entire Asia Cup 2023, which commences on August 30, seems highly likely.
Wanindu Hasaranga, who showcased exceptional skills with both bat and ball during the LPL, unfortunately suffered a thigh strain during the tournament. As a result, he will be unable to participate in Sri Lanka's upcoming group-stage matches against Afghanistan and Bangladesh. However, if Sri Lanka manages to advance to the next round, Hasaranga's involvement will hinge on his willingness to play without risking further injury.
The Sri Lankan team is determined to have both of their star bowlers in top form for the World Cup, which is set to commence on October 5 in India.
In the meantime, there is unfortunate news regarding two key batters, Kusal Perera and Avishka Fernando, as they have tested positive for COVID-19 and are currently under observation. Their availability for the Asia Cup 2023 will depend on their recovery progress.
Both Perera and Fernando are believed to have contracted the virus during the latter stages of the tournament. Unless they receive negative test results, their chances of being selected for the team will be diminished.
Although Fernando has not played an ODI since January of this year, primarily due to injuries, the left-handed Perera recently participated in a One-Day game for Sri Lanka in 2021.
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