Get the latest on Sri Lanka’s Squad Announcement for ICC World Cup 2023. Discover the lineup, key players, and team prospects. In a recent development, Sri Lanka has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2023, which is set to kick off on October 5. This announcement comes with some significant changes and challenges for the Sri Lankan team, notably the absence of key players due to injuries.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s Hamstring Woes
One of the most crucial setbacks for the Sri Lankan squad is the absence of star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga. He sustained a hamstring injury during a high-stakes Eliminator game between B-Love Kandy and Jaffna Kings in the Lanka Premier League (LPL) just last month. This unfortunate injury ruled him out of the Asia Cup 2023.
Re-Aggravation and Uncertain Prospects
What makes matters worse is that Hasaranga’s hamstring injury, initially diagnosed as a grade 2 tear, worsened during his rehabilitation. It escalated to a grade 3 tear, adding to the complexity of his injury as it also involves a T-junction hamstring issue. The chairman of Sri Lanka’s medical committee, Arjuna de Silva, expressed his concerns about Hasaranga’s chances of participating in the ICC World Cup 2023.
Arjuna de Silva’s Assessment
Arjuna de Silva stated, “We are consulting foreign doctors to see whether he needs surgery or not. If he does, he will be out for at least three months. At the moment, the situation is not that great, and it’s highly unlikely if he can play the World Cup.”
Dushmantha Chameera’s Unfortunate Shoulder Injury
In addition to Hasaranga’s absence, right-arm pacer Dushmantha Chameera has also been ruled out of the ICC World Cup 2023 due to his ongoing struggle with a shoulder injury. This injury has hindered his recovery, making him unavailable for this prestigious cricket tournament.
Returning Faces and New Hopes
On a brighter note, there are some positive developments in the Sri Lankan squad. Dilshan Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara, who missed the Asia Cup 2023, have made their way back into the squad. Their return brings depth to the team’s bowling department.
Maheesh Theekshana’s Comeback
Another promising inclusion is Maheesh Theekshana, a key spinner who missed the Asia Cup final against India. His presence in the squad adds variety and depth to Sri Lanka’s spin bowling options.
The Final Lineup for ICC World Cup 2023
Here’s the finalized Sri Lankan squad for the ICC World Cup 2023:
- Dasun Shanaka (c)
- Kusal Mendis (vc)
- Kusal Perera
- Pathum Nissanka
- Dimuth Karunaratne
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Charith Asalanka
- Dhananjaya de Silva
- Dushan Hemantha
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Dunith Wellalage
- Kasun Rajitha
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Lahiru Kumara
- Dilshan Madushanka
Conclusion: Challenges and Hopes
In summary, Sri Lanka faces a formidable challenge in the ICC World Cup 2023 with the absence of key players like Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera due to injuries. However, the inclusion of returning players and promising talents like Maheesh Theekshana offers hope for a competitive showing in this prestigious cricket tournament. The cricketing world will eagerly await Sri Lanka’s performance as they embark on their World Cup journey.
