Sri Lanka will rest Dushmantha Chameera for their final Group B game against Zimbabwe on Thursday, as selectors turn their attention towards managing workloads ahead of a demanding Super Eights phase that begins on Sunday.
With qualification already secured and the outcome of the Zimbabwe match having no bearing on their progress, the team management has opted for caution rather than risk. Chameera, Sri Lanka’s strike fast bowler, has been central to their plans in the tournament and the selectors are keen to ensure he remains fresh for the sterner tests to come.
Sri Lanka’s bowling resources have, however, been stretched thin by a growing injury list. Eshan Malinga, Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana have all been ruled out through injury, dealing a significant blow to the team’s bowling strength at a critical stage of the competition.
Pathirana’s absence, in particular, opens the door for new faces. Pramod Madushan is set to get his first opportunity of the tournament, while Dilshan Madushanka, who was drafted into the squad as Pathirana’s replacement, is also expected to make his debut in this World Cup.
The spin department will remain unchanged, with Sri Lanka continuing to back the trio of Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage, while the batting unit will also stay intact.
Despite a poor run against Australia (1 off 3 balls), Kusal Janith Perera will be persisted with at the top of the order, as Sri Lanka hope the aggressive opener can rediscover his touch before the Super Eights begin. The match will begin at 3PM at R Premadasa Stadium.
