In a significant turn of events, the Sri Lankan cricket team has been forced to select a new captain for the remaining matches of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. This decision comes as a major setback for Sri Lanka, who, alongside three other teams, have yet to secure a victory in the ongoing tournament.
The absence of Dasun Shanaka, who has been ruled out due to a right thigh muscle injury, will be keenly felt by the Sri Lankan squad, especially in the upcoming crucial fixtures.
Chamika Karunaratne, initially on the reserve list, has been named as the replacement player for Shanaka. The ICC officially announced this change after its Technical Committee approved the alteration in the Sri Lankan squad.
Karunaratne, who boasts 23 ODIs under his belt, steps in due to Shanaka’s injury, which requires a three-week recovery period.
With the tournament in full swing, Sri Lanka has also announced their new captain. Kusal Mendis, who has been a leading force for Sri Lanka with the bat, now assumes the captaincy immediately. Mendis faces the challenging task of guiding his team into the top four, with only eight matches remaining for the 1996 World Cup champions.
Sri Lanka must secure a minimum of six wins and closely monitor their net run rate to qualify for the semifinals.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on their newly appointed captain, and Sri Lankan fans will be hopeful for a strong comeback and impressive performances from their team in the remaining matches of the World Cup.
