IND vs SL: Maheesh Theekshana Ruled Out Of Asia Cup Final 2023 Due To Hamstring Injury
Published - 16 Sep 2023, 01:59 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:18 AM
Sri Lanka have suffered a huge injury blow ahead of the Asia Cup 2023 against Team India. The home side will be without one of their key players Maheesh Theekshana for the title-decider against the Men in Blue at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Maheesh Theekshana strained his right hamstring while fielding during Sri Lanka’s last Super 4 game against Pakistan earlier this week in Colombo. The 23-year-old suffered the injury while fielding in the 34th over of Pakistan’s innings.
On the fifth ball of the over when Pakistan batter Mohammad Rizwan swept a delivery from Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana made a diving attempt from the deep backward squad to stop the boundary. He failed to stop the ball from crossing the boundary and also ended up hurting himself in the process.
Maheesh Theekshana walked off the field straightaway to seek medical attention after bowling the 35th over. He returned to the field again to bowl the 37th over before walking off the field with the help of physio. Later in the game, he did not come out to bat at his usual position and Sri Lanka eventually crossed the finishing line without needing his services with the bat.
Maheesh Theekshana bowled 9 overs in the game and picked up one wicket for 42 runs. He, however, won’t play the final after scans confirmed a grade three hamstring tear. Fortunately for Sri Lanka, the spinner will recover in time for the World Cup next month.
Maheesh Theekshana’s absence a big blow for Sri Lanka:
Missing Maheesh Theekshana will be a huge blow for Sri Lanka. The spinner has been an integral part of the team for quite some time now. His ability to bowl at any stage of the game makes him an indispensable asset for the Islanders. He is currently the leading wicket-taker in Asia Cup 2023. In 5 games, the right-arm spinner has picked up 11 wickets.
Maheesh Theekshana’s injury has only added to Sri Lanka’s woes. They are already without the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Madushanka, and Lahiru Kumara for the tournament. But the Dasun Shanaka-led side has done well to qualify for the final and will be looking to defend their title.
