T20 World Cup 2022: Travelling reserve Ashen Bandara replaces Danushka Gunathilaka in Sri Lanka squad

Sri Lanka continues to suffer another major blow in their quest to reach the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup as top-order batter Danushka Gunathilaka has endured a hamstring tear. The player, who missed the UAE game along with Pramod Madushan, underwent scans on hamstring injuries that was later confirmed on the official website of the International Cricket Council.

Earlier the side lost the services of Dushmantha Chameera who was also confirmed to be ruled out of the rest of the matches. Chameera dazzled in thumping win over the UAE having scalped three wickets and giving away only 15 runs. The Lankan Lions completely outclassed UAE in a fixture that proved to be vital for the progress of the 2022 Asia Cup winners.

Ashen Bandara to replace Danushka Gunathilaka

Gunathilaka was to undergo fitness tests ahead of the fixture but after careful assessment by the medical team, the player will be in the sidelines due to the injury and has been ruled out of the marquee tournament. Furthermore, it is understood that the Lankan Lions have travelling reserve Ashen Bandara, who will join the side as a replacement.

The forced replacement made by Sri Lanka at this stage may come not out as a fruitful one as the player has not got accustomed to playing in the Australian conditions. Moreover, getting into a high-octane match which technically is a virtual knockout match against the Netherlands will be tricky for Bandara.

Sri Lanka will be out with the few players as they head into the match against the Dutch side, however, the side will be optimistic to fire all cylinders and ensure a place in the group stage of the grand event. As Netherlands have won both their matches and a win against Sri Lanka will seal the deal for the side, it is highly unlikely that the side will make any chances in the much awaited clash.