Bipin Dani
Less than a week before the team’s departure to India for the World Cup, the Sri Lankan team is yet to be officially announced. “This is because we are keen to see the progress and recovery of Wanindu Hasaranga”, one of the top sources reveals.
“The team is already selected and it is almost the same as being reported on social media. We are waiting for the sports ministry’s approval and expect to release it soon”, the source added.
The team is scheduled to travel in the middle of the week commencing Monday and the selector on tour will be the chairman, Pramodya Wickramasinghe.
“Wanindu has again picked up the injury. It is a third grade hamstring injury. Even if he is not completely out of the World Cup, he will miss the initial matches. We are still undecided whether he can be sent with the squad. And also, if he recovers, whether he can play the matches with the straps. He is our champion player and needs no practice”, the source explained.
The big question, however, would be whether the World Cup technical committee can allow him to play, if he is not announced as a member of the team as his injury is not picked up during the tournament but before that.
“This can only be possible if he is in the Reserve Pool”, the source explained.
The other injured players, Dilshan Madhushanka, Lahiru Kumara and Maheesh Theekshana have all recovered. Dushmantha Chameera is not considered for the selection.
The likely squad : Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (Vice captain), Kusal Perera, Dimuth Karunratne, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Lahiru Kumara, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesa Pathirana, Dilshan Madhushanka and Wanindu Hasaranga (???).
Reserves : Chamika Karunratne, Dushan Hemantha.
