Table of Contents
With less than a week to go for Asia Cup 2023, the excitement among cricket enthusiasts has reached a fever pitch as they anticipate gripping battles between six Asian nations. The preparations from the teams participating in the event are also in full swing. However, the Sri Lankan team has suffered a major setback in their camp ahead of the much-anticipated event after two of their prominent players were tested positive for Covid-19.
It is worth mentioning that Sri Lanka are the second most successful team in the tournament’s history, with six Asia Cup titles and are even the defending champion of the event. But the Covid scare in the Islander’s camp ahead of the Asia Cup 2023 has flared up tensions for the team.
Which two Sri Lankan players have tested positive for Covid-19?
The two players from the Sri Lankan team who have tested positive for Covid-19 are Kusal Perera and Avishka Fernando. Both batters are currently under observation, and their availability for the continental tournament depends on their recovery.
Also READ: Sanjay Manjrekar picks India’s playing XI for the Asia Cup 2023
The Covid-19 storm in the Sri Lankan camp has come at a time when they are already surrounded by certain injuries. The team is yet to announce their Asia Cup 2023 squad and will face a huge challenge in assembling a formidable line-up for the event.
Fernando had a great Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2023 and scored an impressive 244 runs in 10 matches. The Islanders will be hopeful of the opening batter’s speedy recovery as his absence could affect them on the big stage. At the same time, Perera also had a decent LPL 2023 campaign with 210 runs in 8 matches.
As far as the Asia Cup 2023 is concerned, the tournament will commence from August 30 and will be co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan team will start their campaign against Bangladesh on August 31 at the Pallekele International Cricket Satdium.
Also READ: Masters Unveiled – Sri Lanka’s All-Time Asia Cup ODI XI
