NEW DELHI: Sri Lanka's spinner Maheesh Theekshana has been sidelined from the Asia Cup final against India due to injury, as confirmed by captain Dasun Shanaka on Saturday.
Theekshana, aged 23, suffered a hamstring injury during their Super Four victory over Pakistan, which secured their place in the tournament's Sunday final. This event serves as a precursor to next month's ODI World Cup in India.
Shanaka informed reporters on the eve of the title showdown in Colombo, stating, "He won't be able to take part in this game since he got a Grade 3 injury, but he will be there for the World Cup."
Theekshana had contributed significantly, claiming eight wickets in five matches, providing valuable support to a youthful bowling attack that included pacer Matheesha Pathirana and fellow spinner Dunith Wellalage.
To fill the void left by Theekshana, top-order batsman Sahan Arachchige will be joining the squad while Theekshana undergoes rehabilitation, according to Sri Lanka Cricket.
Despite entering the tournament as underdogs, Sri Lanka, who co-hosted the event with Pakistan, have advanced to their 11th Asia Cup final and have an opportunity to secure their seventh title. The island nation advanced to the Super Fours with a dramatic victory over Afghanistan and has maintained their momentum, despite a loss to India in the Super Fours stage.
"The boys really want to deliver for the country," said Shanaka.
"As a team we have been underdogs, so everyone wants to perform on the bigger stage. These youngsters, they need to show the world what they are capable of."
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