SL vs AUS: Wanindu Hasaranga Ruled Out Of 2nd ODI With A Groin Strain

Thanks to some Glenn Maxwell wizardry, Australia took a 1-0 series lead, but Sri Lanka exposed some flaws and will believe they can knot the series, even though they will have to do so without injured Wanindu Hasaranga.

Hasaranga has been ruled out of at least the second match at Pallekele due to a groin issue, according to ESPNcricinfo, with medical personnel unable to assess how long he will be out. He was a standout batsman and bowler in the first game, almost taking Sri Lanka to victory, and his absence will be felt.

Although Australia was startled to see a used surface for the first ODI, they still performed admirably. Spinners had a far easier day of it, with 11 of the 15 wickets going to them.

Australian Camp Too Are Grappling With Injuries

Injuries are a problem for both teams’ spin departments. Ashton Agar suffered a side injury in the first game, adding to Australia’s expanding injury list, which now includes Marcus Stoinis, who has been ruled out of the series due to a side strain.

On a sluggish surface, Sri Lanka’s batters were impressive, but, as in the T20I series, one of the top three batters needs to make a big score to set the tone for a total far over 300. Their spinners took wickets, but they couldn’t stop Australia’s formidable middle order, which continued to take risks, with Maxwell demonstrating that there is no pitch small enough for him when he’s in form.

“I thought it was a decent effort. I think we were a little bit sloppy in the field. We like to keep our standards up. There are a couple of things I think to look at going into tomorrow’s game. But overall the bowling was pretty good,” Pat Cummins said on the areas Australia could do better.

Australia will look to win the 2nd ODI as well.

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