Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana has been ruled out of the Asia Cup final against India due to a hamstring injury, as announced by the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board on Saturday.
The 23-year-old injured his right hamstring during a slide near the boundary in the match against Pakistan. Despite receiving medical attention, Theekshana bowled three additional overs before being escorted off the field.
Sri Lanka emerged victorious against Pakistan with a narrow two-wicket win. Sahan Arachchige will replace Theekshana for the championship game in Colombo on Sunday, where the hosts will try to defend their title.
Although Theekshana suffered an injury, he is expected to recover in time for the 50-overs World Cup in India, starting on October 5th.
Professor Arjuna de Silva, the head of SLC’s medical committee, remarked, “The MRI results indicate a minor tear.” He further added, referencing a statement from ESPN Cricinfo, “While the scan did show a tear, it’s not significant. Theekshana is doing well clinically, moving without much discomfort.”
In related news, Washington Sundar is anticipated to join the Indian team as a backup for Axar Patel, who injured himself during India’s recent six-run defeat to Bangladesh, as per Cricbuzz.
Sundar, also 23, is part of the Indian roster for the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, with the men’s cricket competition set to begin on September 27th.