Sri Lankan speedster Dushmantha Chameera has yet again been ruled out of a major series. The pacer, known for his raw pace and ability to extract bounce, will miss the upcoming white-ball leg against India due to a persistent bronchitis and respiratory infection.

A career plagued by injuries

This is another setback in a career plagued by injuries. Chameera has previously missed crucial tournaments like the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup due to calf and shoulder issues. Despite his talent, he has struggled to maintain fitness and consistency.

Impact on Sri Lanka’s bowling line-up

Sri Lanka will undoubtedly miss Chameera’s firepower in the home conditions. His absence puts added pressure on the remaining bowlers to deliver. The team management will have to carefully assess their bowling options to fill the void left by the injured pacer.

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Replacement announced

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) released a statement which stated that Chameera is still on the mend from a bronchitis and respiratory infection, and that’s the reason he will not participate in the T20I series. The announcement also confirmed Asitha Fernando as Chameera’s substitute.

Notably, Fernando, with only three T20I matches under his belt, demonstrated his abilities with a decisive performance in the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2024 final, securing 3 for 35, including key dismissals of Tim Seifert, and Bhanuka Rajapaksa. Despite a somewhat average LPL season, taking seven wickets in nine matches with an economy rate of 9.71, he shows promise for the upcoming T20I series.

Updated Sri Lanka squad for the T20I series against India: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Janith Perera, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando

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