Injured Chameera and Hasaranga ruled out, Shanaka to lead Sri Lanka at the World Cup

Sri Lanka’s World Cup squad has been confirmed, with Dasun Shanaka named as captain. Unfortunately, they will be without the services of Dushmantha Chameera and Wanindu Hasaranga, both sidelined due to injuries. The rest of the 15-member squad remains consistent with the team that reached the final of the Asia Cup, except for the inclusion of Dilshan Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara, who replace Pramod Madushan and Binura Fernando. Chamika Karunaratne has been designated as a travelling reserve.

Chameera’s absence is particularly significant, as the experienced fast bowler had last played for Sri Lanka in June against Afghanistan before being sidelined with injuries. He suffered a torn pectoral muscle ahead of the World Cup qualifier in Zimbabwe and later sustained another injury during the Lanka Premier League in August. Hasaranga’s chances of participating in the World Cup had been uncertain due to his injury. While there were hopes that he might be included with the expectation of his recovery during the latter stages of the tournament, the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) statement confirmed his exclusion, stating that he is still in the recovery process.

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Injuries are a prevalent concern within Sri Lanka’s bowling unit, as three frontline bowlers are returning from injuries. Spinner Maheesh Theekshana is recovering from a hamstring injury, Madushanka recently suffered a torn oblique muscle, and Kumara missed the entire Asia Cup with a side strain. Despite concerns about the bowling department, Sri Lanka’s batting lineup appears to be in good shape, albeit with issues related to form and consistency.

Kusal Perera is likely to open alongside Pathum Nissanka, and the wicketkeeping duties will be shared among Kusal Perera, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and Kusal Mendis. The middle order is expected to feature Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, and Dhananjaya de Silva. Dasun Shanaka, the captain, will occupy the No. 7 position. Head coach Chris Silverwood has expressed his support for Shanaka, hoping that he will regain his form and contribute significantly to the team’s performance. Sri Lanka is set to face a challenging campaign in the World Cup, with their first match scheduled against England on October 5.