Asia Cup 2023: Covid-19 scare in Sri Lankan camp

Xtra Time Web Desk: Two Sri Lankan cricketers, Avishka Fernando and Kusal Perera, have tested positive for Covid-19 just ahead of the Asia Cup 2023, co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka from August 30 to September 17. Their inclusion in the Asia Cup squad is uncertain and depends on their recovery timelines. Both players displayed symptoms before being tested, and it’s speculated that they might have contracted the virus during the final stages of the Lanka Premier League (LPL), which concluded on August 20.

Avishka Fernando, who had not played ODIs since the beginning of the year, made a strong case for selection with impressive performances in the recently-concluded Lanka Premier League, scoring 244 runs in 10 matches.

Kusal Perera, an aggressive opening batter who had been sidelined due to injuries and poor form since January 2021, also showcased his abilities in the LPL 2023 season by scoring 210 runs in 8 matches.

However, Sri Lanka faces additional concerns with injuries to key players Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera. Hasaranga, a standout performer in the LPL, suffered a thigh strain and is expected to return after the group stages. Chameera, the premier pacer, is at risk of missing the entire Asia Cup due to a shoulder injury sustained during the T20 tournament.

Sri Lanka is scheduled to play against Bangladesh on August 31 in Colombo and Afghanistan on September 5 in Lahore. The team’s composition and performance will heavily depend on the recovery of these key players.

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By: XtraTime
Title: Asia Cup 2023: Covid-19 scare in Sri Lankan camp
Sourced From: xtratime.in/asia-cup-2023-covid-19-scare-in-sri-lankan-camp/
Published Date: Sat, 26 Aug 2023 02:58:43 +0000

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