Dilshan Madushanka is set to replace the injured Matheesha Pathirana, with Sri Lanka selectors deciding to bring in the left-arm seamer. Madushanka’s name has now been forwarded to the World Cup Technical Committee for formal approval.
Several alternatives were discussed, including Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara and even Wanindu Hasaranga, who has been ruled out for three weeks with a hamstring injury. However, Madushanka has received the green light from the selectors.
Sources revealed that the team captain had requested selectors to consider Binura Fernando, pointing to his left-arm angle and variations in the bowling repertoire. That proposal was shot down due to concerns over his fielding.
Meanwhile, Hasaranga, who suffered a hamstring injury and was ruled out of the tournament, has insisted he is fit to play despite medical advice recommending a three-week rehabilitation period. The selectors, however, are unwilling to take that risk.
