SL vs IND T20I Series 2024: Dushmantha Chameera & Nuwan Thushara Ruled Out of T20I series
Author: Vishnu Reddy
Updated At:
Ahead of the first T20I between India and Sri Lanka at Pallekelle International Stadium, the Sri Lankan team has suffered a significant setback with two of their premier and most experienced bowlers sidelined due to injuries. Dushmantha Chameera, who is battling bronchitis and a respiratory infection, has been ruled out of the T20I series only. Asita Fernando has been named as his replacement. Yesterday evening, during a practice session, another senior fast bowler, Nuwan Thushara, suffered a left thumb injury and has been ruled out of both the T20I and ODI series. Dilshan Madhushanka, who claimed a six-wicket haul against India in the 2023 ODI World Cup, has been brought in as his replacement.
Key Blow to Sri Lanka ahead of the T20I series
Dushmantha Chameera, who has claimed 16 wickets against India and has always troubled the Indian top order with his swing bowling, is the leader of Sri Lanka's pace attack. His absence is a huge loss for the series. To make matters worse, Nuwan Thushara, who had a phenomenal LPL season, has also been ruled out. Both bowlers are crucial to Sri Lanka's success, but with their unavailability, the team is now reliant on inexperienced seamers like Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, and Binura Fernando. Dasun Shanaka can bowl if needed.
All Eyes on Wanindu Hasaranga
After an abysmal T20 World Cup, Wanindu Hasaranga stepped down from the captaincy. He is coming off a phenomenal Lanka Premier League season where he claimed 15 wickets in 10 matches. His record against India in the shorter format is impressive, with 13 wickets in 10 matches. Moreover, his performance in Sri Lanka's T20Is is impeccable, featuring 31 wickets in 20 matches. With the team's senior bowlers unavailable, the onus is on Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana to handle the formidable Indian batting lineup.
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