Sri Lanka cricket team head coach, Chris Silverwood, has delivered the disappointing news that off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana will miss their opening match in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 against South Africa in Delhi.
The talented youngster is still on the path to recovery from a hamstring injury, and while Silverwood anticipates his return, it won’t be in time for this crucial fixture.
The absence of Wanindu Hasaranga, who is ruled out of the entire tournament, had already placed a significant role on Theekshana’s shoulders as Sri Lanka’s primary spinner.
However, the 23-year-old sustained a right hamstring injury during the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 game against Pakistan while fielding. Unfortunately, this injury also prevented him from participating in the final against India, where Sri Lanka faced a 10-wicket defeat.
Coach Silverwood provided some optimism, stating, “Theekshana is still recovering from a hamstring injury, so he won’t be available for this game. But we expect him to be available very soon. The rest of them are fine.”
Theekshana, known for often taking the new ball in ODIs, boasts a promising record in the format, having claimed 44 wickets in 27 matches at an impressive average of 23.45, including four four-wicket hauls. Sri Lanka will certainly be eager to have him back in action as soon as possible to bolster their spin bowling department.
The Lankan Lions starts their ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign on the 7th of October against the South African team. The match will be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi from 2 PM onwards.
So far, 2 matches have played in the World Cup 2023 where New Zealand beat defending world champions England on the opening day while Pakistan registered their first win against Netherlands cricket team.
7th October will bring a double header for the cricket fans as the first match of the day will see Bangladesh take on Afghanistan from 10:30 AM onwards while the second match of the day will be Sri Lanka vs South Africa from 2 PM onwards.
