NEW DELHI: Sri Lanka's preparations for the Asia Cup 2023 final have been dealt a significant blow as spinner Maheesh Theekshana grapples with a right hamstring issue. This setback comes at a time when Sri Lanka is already dealing with the absence of key players, Dushmantha Chameera and Wanindu Hasaranga.
Theekshana's name could potentially be added to the growing injury list after he strained his right hamstring while fielding during the Super Four clash against Pakistan on Thursday.
The spinner played a pivotal role in leading Sri Lanka's spin attack, conceding just 14 runs in his initial five overs. However, discomfort became evident during his return to the field in the 35th over.
Despite attempting to continue, it appeared that he had strained his hamstring. Although he got three more overs, Theekshana eventually left the field with support as the 39th over commenced.
The spinner has been crucial in Sri Lanka's ODI setup, emerging as their top wicket-taker in 2023 with 31 scalps in 15 matches at an average of 17.45.
Theekshana's injury raises concerns about his availability for the upcoming 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. Sri Lanka, like other participating teams, are required to submit their final squads for the tournament by September 28.
His presence in the World Cup squad would be vital if he can recover in time from what appears to be a potentially significant injury.
(With ANI Inputs)
