New Delhi, February 18: Sri Lanka’s cricket team has suffered a significant blow as star fast bowler Mathisha Pathirana has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2026 due to injury. Pathirana sustained a muscle strain in his left leg during a match against Australia and appeared to be in considerable pain, forcing him to leave the field. Dilshan Madushanka has been called up to replace him in the squad.

With Pathirana’s exit, Sri Lanka’s bowling attack has weakened further, especially since Wanindu Hasaranga is already sidelined due to injury. This marks a return for Dilshan to the T20 team after a long hiatus, having last played an international T20 match on July 27, 2024.

Ahead of the upcoming match against Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka’s batting consultant Vikram Rathour provided an update on Pathirana’s condition, indicating that it seems quite difficult for him to participate further in the tournament.

Sri Lanka has performed exceptionally well in the tournament so far, winning all three matches under the captaincy of Dasun Shanaka. In their last encounter, the team defeated Australia by 8 wickets, with Pathum Nissanka delivering an outstanding performance, scoring an unbeaten 100 runs off 52 balls. Kusal Mendis also contributed significantly with 51 runs off 38 balls. Sri Lanka chased down the target of 182 runs set by the Australian team with only 2 wickets lost in 18 overs. They have already secured their place in the Super 8 stage, with their final group stage match against Zimbabwe scheduled for February 19.

Sri Lanka’s squad includes: Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pawan Ratnayake, Dushan Hemalatha, Dunith Wellalage, Mahesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan.

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