Xtra Time Web Desk: The Sri Lankan cricket team has been hit with a major setback as their star leg spinner, Wanindu Hasaranga, is expected to miss the entire duration of the upcoming World Cup. This unfortunate development comes after Hasaranga had already been sidelined during the Asia Cup due to a hamstring tear. His hopes of making a timely recovery for the World Cup were dashed when he suffered yet another injury during training. The severity of the injury is such that Hasaranga will have to undergo surgery, which could potentially keep him out of action for 6-8 weeks.
With the ICC’s deadline for finalizing the 15-member squad set for September 28 and the Sri Lankan team scheduled to depart for the World Cup on September 27, the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) officials are racing against time to select a replacement for Hasaranga. The absence of Hasaranga is a significant blow to the team, as he is a key player known for his exceptional leg-spin skills.
Adding to their woes, fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera is also facing uncertainty for the World Cup. Chameera missed the Qualifiers for the World Cup and the Asia Cup due to an injury and is still in the process of recovering. These setbacks are posing a considerable challenge for Sri Lanka as they strive to assemble a competitive squad for the prestigious cricketing event.