Sri Lanka was dealt a significant setback before the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2023 final against India when their star spinner, Mahesh Theekshana, had to withdraw due to injury.
Media sources indicate that the talented right-arm spinner suffered a hamstring strain while fielding during the crucial Super 4s stage match against Pakistan in Colombo, which was a must-win game.
The 23-year-old bowler, who gave away 42 runs in his nine-over spell and claimed the wicket of Mohammad Nawaz in the previous match, is scheduled for scans today to evaluate his condition.
In response, the team management has included 27-year-old spinner Sahan Arachchige in the lineup as a replacement for Maheesh Theekshana ahead of the eagerly awaited final against the Rohit Sharma-led India.
On the other hand, the Men in Blue also experienced a change in their squad, with all-rounder Washington Sundar stepping in for Axar Patel, who sustained multiple injuries in the last match.
The left-handed batsman, who played a pivotal innings of 42 runs from 34 balls against Bangladesh, unfortunately, won’t be available to represent India in the final. As a result, the team management has opted to include Sundar.
The final showdown between India and Sri Lanka is set to happen on September 17 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium.
