Matheesha Pathirana Ruled Out Of World Cup 2023, SLC To Announce Replacement

Pathirana has reportedly been ruled out of WC 2023 [AP]

In yet another major blow for Sri Lanka, young speedster Matheesha Pathirana has reportedly been ruled out of the 2023 World Cup. The youngster sustained a shoulder injury earlier in the tournament, which subsequently forced him out of Sri Lanka’s all-important fixtures against Australia and Netherlands.

Matheesha Pathirana ruled out of 2023 World Cup

Owing to an ongoing injury concern, Matheesha Pathirana has been ruled out of the remainder of the 2023 World Cup. The young fast bowler is yet to recover from his shoulder injury, and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is likely to announce his replacement in the squad soon.

Pathirana took quite a beating in Sri Lanka’s high-scoring matches against South Africa and Pakistan before missing out completely against Australia and the Netherlands in the subsequent two fixtures.

Apart from Matheesha Pathirana, Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka was also ruled out of the 2023 World Cup owing to an injury following his side’s defeat against Pakistan. Moreover, star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga sustained a thigh strain during last month’s Lanka Premier League (LPL), which subsequently forced him out of Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup 2023 and World Cup 2023 squads.

Ravaged by injuries and early defeats, Sri Lanka found some form with a much-needed win over the Netherlands at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Under interim skipper Kusal Mendis, they overhauled Netherlands’ 262-run total with nearly two overs to spare in a tight run-chase.

Having registered their opening points of the tournament, Sri Lanka will aim to sustain their newfound momentum when they square off against defending champions England on October 26. Their much-awaited duel is set to be hosted by the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore.

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