Sri Lanka’s campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup has suffered a significant setback, with pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to injury. Left-arm fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka has been called up as his replacement, a move officially approved by the ICC Event Technical Committee.
The injury occurred on Monday during Sri Lanka’s Group B clash against Australia in Pallekele. Pathirana, who had just bowled four deliveries in his first over, suddenly collapsed on the field clutching his left leg. He was forced to leave the field limping and did not return for the remainder of the match. Despite this disruption, Sri Lanka went on to secure a convincing eight-wicket victory.
The ICC later confirmed that Pathirana has suffered a muscle strain in his left leg, necessitating his immediate withdrawal from the tournament. This incident comes after an earlier injury setback at the start of the competition, when leg-spin all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga was sidelined with a hamstring strain against Ireland in Sri Lanka’s opening match. Together, these injuries constitute the second major blow to the team’s World Cup campaign.
Pathirana’s replacement, 24-year-old Madushanka, last featured in international cricket in August 2025 during a one-day series against Zimbabwe. Despite recent injury concerns, he participated earlier this month in a preparatory match for Sri Lanka ‘A’ against Oman, bowling three overs, though he did not claim a wicket. Madushanka has so far taken 15 wickets in 15 T20 Internationals, with his standout performance coming during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he finished as Sri Lanka’s highest wicket-taker with 21 scalps.
Sri Lanka now turns their attention to the final Group B match against Zimbabwe in Colombo. Following that, they will face England on 22 February in Pallekele as part of the Super Eight stage, where they will need to perform at full strength to remain competitive.
Key Injury Update
| Player | Injury | Match Affected | Replacement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matheesha Pathirana | Left leg muscle strain | vs Australia, Group B | Dilshan Madushanka | Ruled out for remainder of tournament |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | Hamstring strain | vs Ireland, Group B | — | Sidelined since first match |
The twin injuries present a tactical challenge for Sri Lanka, especially in the bowling department, where both pace and spin options have been temporarily weakened. The team management will now rely on depth and emerging talent to navigate the crucial Super Eight fixtures.