As injuries mount for Sri Lanka, Maheesh Theekshana’s absence from the World Cup opener against South Africa is confirmed by head coach Chris Silverwood.
Sri Lanka’s World Cup opener against South Africa will proceed without Maheesh Theekshana, as confirmed by head coach Chris Silverwood due to the spinner’s ongoing recovery from a hamstring injury incurred during the Asia Cup. In brighter news, the team will field both Kusal Perera and Dasun Shanaka.
In an intense match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Maheesh Theekshana strained his right hamstring while making a heroic diving attempt to stop a boundary off Mohammad Rizwan’s sweep shot. Despite this setback, the 23-year-old had already left his mark on the game, delivering nine impressive overs, conceding only 42 runs, and crucially, dismissing Mohammad Nawaz.
Sri Lanka managed to secure a thrilling win over Pakistan, booking their place in the highly anticipated final against India.
Silverwood expressed optimism about Theekshana’s imminent return, saying, “Theekshana is still recovering from a hamstring injury, so he won’t be available for this game. But we expect him to be available very soon. The rest of them are fine.”
With both Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga unavailable due to injury, Sri Lanka will rely on allrounders Dhananjaya de Silva and Dunith Wellalage, along with the potential inclusion of legspinner Dushan Hemantha, to carry the spin-bowling responsibilities.
Among them, left-arm spinner Wellalage, who impressed with his near-match-winning performance against India in the Asia Cup, has drawn attention.
With the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup squad announcement deadline set for September 28, Maheesh Theekshana’s injury takes on greater significance.
The potential absence of Theekshana, given the severity of his injury, raises serious questions about Sri Lanka’s World Cup chances. A timely recovery is crucial, as Theekshana’s contribution is important, and his setback appears to be significant.
Last Updated on October 6, 2023
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