Both India and Sri Lanka face injury concerns ahead of the Asia Cup 2023 final, scheduled on September 17 at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.
Axar Patel, who was hit multiple times on his wrists in the last affair of the Super Four, is likely to miss out on the final. As per a PTI report, the all-rounder seemed to have hurt his hamstring also.
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The extent of his injury is unknown yet. Therefore, Washington Sundar has joined the squad as his cover.
“Axar is currently suffering from multiple injuries. He has hurt his little finger, got hit on forearm by a throw from deep and most importantly has developed a hamstring niggle. So Washington has been called,” A BCCI source informed PTI.
Sundar last played an ODI in January. He is a part of the Asian Games 2023 squad. A camp is being organised in Bengaluru for all the cricketers participating the tournament. Sundar will join back the camp soon after the Asia Cup final ends.
Maheesh Theekshana ruled out of Asia Cup 2023 final
As for Sri Lanka, it is an even bigger blow. Their star spinner Maheesh Theekshana is confirmed to miss the upcoming summit clash.
Theekshana dived near the boundary in Sri Lanka’s previous tie against Pakistan. He completed his 10 overs while hobbling in his run-up during the latter part of his spell.
The off-spinner is still very much expected to be available for the upcoming World Cup. He will return to High Performance Center for rehabilitation.
Sahan Arachchige has been called in as his replacement. Arachchige has played two matches in his ODI career so far. In the World Cup 2023 Qualifiers final versus Netherlands, he scored 57 runs and took one wicket.
“Maheesh Theekshana, who strained his right hamstring during the game against Pakistan, will not be available for the finals. A scan was done and confirmed the muscle injury,” Sri Lanka Cricket released a statement
“Sri Lanka Cricket Selectors have brought in Sahan Arachchige into the squad in place of Theekshana. Theekshana will return to the High Performance Center to commence rehabilitation work,” the statement added.
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When is Asia Cup 2023 final?
India and Sri Lanka are scheduled to be at the loggerheads on Sunday, September 17 at R, Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
