ICC World Cup 2019: Nuwan Pradeep Ruled Out Of Sri Lanka’s Next Clash Against Bangladesh

Sri Lanka got a big blow earlier their second clash against Bangladesh on Tuesday, June 11 at County Ground, Bristol in the ongoing ICC World Cup. Their key pace bowler Nuwan Pradeep has been ruled out for the next game due to dislocating the little finger of his right hand. He has given a week’s rest to get fit, according to International Cricket Council (ICC).

Pradeep injured himself during their practice session in the nets while he was bowling to Kusal Perera. Perera hit a straight shot back to the bowler and to save his face from the ball, Pradeep put his right hand up and eventually got hurt. He was taken to the hospital immediately after dislocating the finger. Along with this, he has some cuts on his right hand as well.

“Nuwan was given treatment at the hospital, while the doctors reset his dislocated finger and the cut on his finger was closed with stitches. He was also administered with antibiotics,” Sri Lanka Team manager Asantha De Mel said. “Pradeep will not take part in Sri Lanka’s game against Bangladesh on Tuesday, as he will need a week’s time to recover from the injury.”

On the other hand, Sri Lanka have not been in good touch in this ongoing tournament. They lost their first game against New Zealand while won against Afghanistan in the second. The third game against Pakistan was called off without a ball being bowled due to rain. Pradeep’s injury in this current scenario will bring more pressure to the team.

Pradeep bagged 4 wickets against Afghanistan while giving away 31 runs. He was even adjudged the ‘Man of The Match’ in Sri Lanka’s 34-run win in Cardiff. However, they have a stand-by player travelling with them, Kasun Rajitha; who can replace Pradeep in the next game.

While Sri Lanka are tensed with their key bowler’s injury, Lahiru Thirimanne has also felt some issues in his knee during practice, which also created doubts about his presence in their next clash for Tuesday.

If both the players have to sit out on Tuesday, it will be tough for Sri Lanka to beat Bangladesh as they are constantly trying their best to bounce back strongly.