By Zainab Shafiq 
With the 2023 Asia Cup just around the corner, Sri Lanka finds itself in a challenging situation, yet to unveil its squad for the prestigious tournament due to an ongoing battle with injuries. While other participating teams have already named their squads, the Sri Lankan Tigers are meticulously evaluating their options in light of a spate of injuries that have plagued the team.
As of now, the Sri Lankan squad is dealing with the absence of several key players, leaving a significant void in their lineup. Four crucial members are currently ruled out for the Asian event, further complicating the selection process.
The latest setback came in the form of pacer Dilshan Madushanka, who sustained an oblique muscle injury during a practice match on August 25. His availability not only for the Asia Cup but also for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 hangs in uncertainty, as confirmed by Professor Arjuna de Silva, the Chairman of SLC’s medical committee.
Lahiru Kumara, another vital seamer for Sri Lanka, is also likely to miss the entire Asia Cup due to a side strain, although his injury is considered less severe than Madushanka’s.
Dushmantha Chameera and Wanindu Hasaranga had previously been ruled out of the tournament. Hasaranga, recovering from a grade two thigh strain sustained during a Lanka Premier League (LPL) match, may be unavailable for the group stage matches but could contribute should Sri Lanka progress to the Super Four round. Chameera’s pectoral injury adds to Sri Lanka’s woes, with doubts lingering over his participation in the World Cup as well.
This spate of injuries is a significant blow to Sri Lanka, given that Chameera, Madushanka, and Kumara form the core of their bowling attack, wreaking havoc during the World Cup Qualifiers in Zimbabwe. The selection of the Asia Cup squad holds immense importance, as it is expected to serve as the foundation for the upcoming Cricket World Cup, with minor adjustments.
Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup campaign is set to commence on August 31 in Kandy, where they will face Bangladesh. However, the squad’s uncertainty due to injuries continues to loom large, adding an element of unpredictability to their participation in this prestigious tournament.
Also, see:
Where to Watch Asia Cup 2023 – Official Broadcasters List
News Editor