SL vs PAK | Maheesh Theekshana ruled out of the Second Test

Sri Lanka spinner Maheesh Theekshana has been released from the Test squad ahead of the second Test against Pakistan in Galle starting July 24.

Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) on Thursday confirmed the development and updated regarding the changes in the squad. Theekshana looked in discomfort while gripping the ball in the fourth innings of the Galle Test. SLC stated that the 21-year-old spinner sustained an injury in his right hand. 

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Promising off-spinner Lakshitha Manasinghe will replace Theekshana in the squad. Manasinghe has earned a national call-up after fine figures of 5 for 82 against Australia 'A’  in the practice game at Hambantota.

Nissanka returns to the squad

The media release further stated that opening batter Pathum Nissanka will be rejoining the Test team in Galle. Nissanka returns after recovering from COVID-19. He was tested positive for COVID-19 midway through the engrossing second Test against Australia at the Galle International Stadium. 

Oshada Fernando took his place in the first Test against Pakistan and he fared well while opening the innings with captain Dimuth Karunaratne. He scored 99 runs in the match including a crucial fifty in the third innings of the opening Test. In all likelihood, Nissanka will be missing the series decider.

In Theekshana's absence, Dunith Wellalage or Jeffrey Vandersay are likely to take the field against Pakistan in the all-important second Test. 

"Pathum Nissanka will be rejoining the team. Maheesh Theekshana was released from the squad owing to an injury the player sustained on one of his fingers (Right Hand). In place of Theekshana, Lakshitha Manasinghe comes into the squad," stated SLC in a media release.

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