Mendis takes reins as Shanaka sidelined for key match

In a significant setback for Sri Lanka’s cricket team, their captain Dasun Shanaka will be unable to participate in the upcoming vital match against Australia in Lucknow on Monday. Shanaka is grappling with a right thigh quadricep injury, a condition that could keep him out of action for an extended period. This injury even jeopardizes his potential participation in the World Cup, as confirmed by Dr. Arjuna de Silva, the Head of Sri Lanka Cricket Medical Panel.

In light of Shanaka’s absence, Kusal Mendis is set to lead the team in this crucial encounter. The team’s management has also made the decision to consider Chamika Karunaratne, a reserve all-rounder, for the position of a batting all-rounder at number 7. It’s noteworthy that Karunaratne wasn’t initially a part of the original 15-member squad. Sri Lanka Cricket is in discussions with the ICC to potentially add him to the original squad after assessing the duration of Shanaka’s recovery, aiming to fortify the team’s batting all-rounder position.

To compound their challenges, right-arm bowler Matheesha Pathirana is contending with a bowling arm injury, and his recovery is estimated to require a minimum of 10 days of rest. It’s crucial to mention that both Shanaka and Pathirana were unable to participate in the practice sessions that commenced on Saturday as the team prepared for the pivotal match against Australia.

The absence of these key players presents a significant hurdle for the Sri Lankan team as they aim for victory in this must-win game. The selectors now face the formidable task of reshaping the team, seeking to overcome these setbacks and secure a pivotal win against Australia in Lucknow.