CSK Star Matheesha Pathirana Out? Sri Lanka's Strongest XI For T20 World Cup 2024

Debashis Sarangi

Pathirana recently sustained a hamstring injury [AP]Pathirana recently sustained a hamstring injury [AP]

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In a significant development, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced a formidable 19-member squad, including four reserves, for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. 

As expected, the Lankan board appointed experienced spin bowling all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga as the captain, who will lead a team with outright match-winners. 

However, as Sri Lanka prepare themselves for the marquee event, ace speedster Matheesha Pathirana's untimely injury emerges as a massive concern for them. 

Notably, Pathirana, known for his death bowling exploits, was recently ruled out of the IPL 2024 due to a hamstring injury. 

Considering the hamstring injury needs quite some time to heal, Pathirana's World Cup participation is certainly in jeopardy. 

Therefore, if he doesn't recover in time, the young pacer might miss a few initial games for the Island nation. 


Sri Lanka's strongest playing XI for T20 WC 2024

The Sri Lankan lineup features the experienced duo of Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, who will likely open the batting, with Kamindu Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama slotted at number three and four, respectively. 

The dynamic Charith Asalanka will be Sri Lanka's number five, as he has enjoyed stellar success at that position. 

Veteran cricketer Angelo Mathews, who has also opened the bowling for Sri Lanka in the recent past, could bat down the order alongside Dasun Shanaka and skipper Hasaranga. The trio's primary job will be to ensure a fitting finish for their team. 

Chameera and Madushanka will lead the Lankan bowling unit, which will form a lethal new-ball combination. Meanwhile, Hasaranga and Theekshana will lead the spin attack, with Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, and Dasun Shanaka as the fifth bowlers. 

Sri Lanka's strongest T20 WC XI (if Pathirana is unavailable)

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Maheesh Theekshana