Nuwan Thushara ruled out of T20I series against India

2024.07.25

Sri Lanka’s fast bowler Nuwan Thushara has been ruled out of the T20I series against India.

The injury to right-arm bowler Nuwan Thushara has hampered Sri Lanka’s preparations for the T20I series against India. The three-match series between the two sides will begin on Saturday (July 27) at Pallekele.

The Sri Lanka Cricket Board revealed that Thushara injured his finger during a Wednesday evening training session under lights. The injury, which is to his non-bowling hand, is significant enough to keep him out of the series. This setback is noteworthy, given Thushara’s steady success in Sri Lanka’s T20I team this year.

This injury adds to Sri Lanka’s problems, coming on the heels of the loss of Dushmantha Chameera. Chameera, who is still recovering from bronchitis and a respiratory illness, has been removed from the series and replaced by Asitha Fernando. The twin blow to the pace attack increases the strain on Sri Lanka’s bowling squad ahead of the important series.

Following Thushara’s injury, Dilshan Madushanka has been added to the team. Thushara’s absence is especially significant given his recent performance.

He was a star player in the T20 World Cup 2024, taking eight wickets in three games, including an incredible four-wicket haul against Bangladesh. His play was one of the team’s few bright spots during an otherwise disastrous season.

Adding to the turmoil, Sri Lanka’s squad has experienced substantial coaching and captaincy changes. Chris Silverwood and Wanindu Hasaranga have stood down as head coach and captain, respectively, following the T20 World Cup. Sanath Jayasuriya has taken over as temporary head coach, while Charith Asalanka has been named captain. These moves represent a moment of transition for the squad, as they strive to achieve stability and form a cohesive unit.

@charith rajapaksha