Kasun Rajitha was ruled out of the Bangladesh-Sri Lanka second Test due to a back injury, with Asitha Fernando coming in as a replacement.
After facing a string of injuries lately, Sri Lanka Cricket now loses Kasun Rajitha. The 30-year-old pace bowler has been ruled out of the second Test against Bangladesh, set to begin on March 30, and will be replaced by Asitha Fernando.
According to ESPNcricinfo, Rajitha might have injured his back while playing the first test. Although he took medical care and continued the match, it might have grown on him later.
The SLC media had a press release regarding Rajitha’s injury. “Kasun Rajitha will not be available for the second test match as the player has suffered an injury to his left upper back area. Kasun will return home to start rehabilitation work,” read the report.
Interestingly, Asitha, Rajitha’s replacement, was also initially ruled out of the entire series with a hamstring injury, but his recovery was quicker than expected. Hence, he will be flying to Chattogram to join the squad for the second test.
Notably, Asitha is no stranger to success against Bangladesh. In his previous two Tests against them, he scalped 13 wickets at an impressive average of 16.61. Overall, he boasts an impressive 41 wickets in 13 Tests at an average of 26.85.
Rajitha’s injury added to Sri Lanka’s growing list of fast-bowling concerns. Dilshan Madushanka was recently ruled out of the IPL with a hamstring injury, while Matheesha Pathirana missed CSK’s opening IPL game due to a similar injury sustained while playing for Sri Lanka. Dushmantha Chameera, too, remains a long-term absentee after injuring his left quadricep earlier this year.
With growing concerns about fast bowler injuries on the line, Sri Lanka will complete its tour of Bangladesh and look forward to the group stages of the T20 World Cup commencing in June. There, the Lions will start their campaign by facing South Africa on June 3rd.
Last Updated on March 28, 2024
