Sri Lanka Unveils Asia Cup 2023 Squad, With Absence of Wanindu Hasaranga and 3 Other Key Bowlers

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has unveiled its squad for the forthcoming 2023 Asia Cup, finalizing the list of teams set to participate in the event.

Mainul Islam

August 29, 2023

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Author:

Mainul Islam

Date:

August 29, 2023

100

Sri Lanka Unveils Asia Cup 2023 Squad, With Absence of Wanindu Hasaranga and 3 Other Key Bowlers

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has unveiled its squad for the forthcoming 2023 Asia Cup, finalizing the list of teams set to participate in the event.

Cricket News

Injury Woes Impact Squad Selection

As anticipated, the team selection is significantly affected by an ongoing injury crisis, resulting in the absence of four key bowlers: Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, and Lahiru Kumara.

Ailments and Injuries

The quartet of Hasaranga, Chameera, Madushanka, and Kumara have each encountered their share of injuries. Hasaranga suffered a hamstring injury, while Chameera sustained a shoulder ailment during the 2023 Lanka Premier League (LPL). Madushanka’s injury raises concerns about his potential participation in the World Cup. Meanwhile, Kumara is in the process of recovery from a side strain.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Amidst these challenges, Kusal Perera makes a return to the squad after recovering from a bout of COVID-19 during the latter stages of the 2023 Lanka Premier League (LPL). Notably, Avishka Fernando, who tested positive for COVID-19, will not be part of the squad temporarily, with plans for his inclusion once he fully recuperates.

Official Statement and Squad Announcement

Sri Lanka Cricket released a concise statement outlining the squad selection process and the state of some players’ health. The statement emphasized:

“Sri Lanka Cricket selectors have chosen the following 15-member squad for participation in the Men’s ODI Asia Cup 2023. The Honorable Minister of Sports and Youth, Roshan Ranasinghe, granted approval for the squad. Kusal Janith Perera is currently recovering from an episode of ‘flu’, and he will rejoin the squad once fully fit.”

Leadership and Key Players

All-rounder Dasun Shanaka will lead the team as the defending champions embark on their title defense. Kusal Mendis has been entrusted with the role of vice-captain. Notable figures including Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, and Charith Asalanka form the backbone of the top-order batting.

Navigating Bowling Challenges

In the domain of all-rounders, Dhananjaya de Silva and Chamika Karunaratne assume crucial roles. Given the challenges posed by a restructured bowling attack, their contributions become even more pivotal.

Roster Shifts and Promotions

In light of the injury-stricken squad, Sri Lanka has introduced Kasun Rajitha, Matheesa Pathirana, Pramod Madushan, and Binura Fernando as their primary pacers. Notably, Pathirana, Madushan, and Fernando collectively possess limited experience in the ODI format prior to the Asia Cup.

Spin Bowling Strategies

The absence of Hasaranga leads to off-spinner Maheesh Theeksana taking the reins of the spin bowling department on home soil. Support in the spin department will be extended by rookie spinners Dushan Hemantha and Dunith Wellalage.

The 2023 Asia Cup Squad

The finalized Sri Lanka squad for the 2023 Asia Cup includes:

Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Janith Perera, Kusal Mendis (Vice Captain), Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Matheesha Pathirana, Kasun Rajitha, Dushan Hemantha, Binura Fernando, Pramod Madushan

Tournament Kick-off and Challenges Ahead

Sri Lanka commences its title defense with an opening clash against Bangladesh on August 31 at the Pallekele International Stadium. Subsequently, their second group encounter versus Afghanistan is slated for September 5 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. As the team grapples with a depleted bowling unit, the question lingers: Can Dasun Shanaka and his team replicate their underdog triumphs of 2022? Your thoughts are welcome.
Last Updated: Aug 29, 2023
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