Cricket News

Dushmantha Chameera withdrawn from Sri Lanka squad for 2nd ODI vs Afghanistan due to quadriceps injury

Sri Lankan pace spearhead Dushmantha Chameera has missed the ongoing second ODI against Afghanistan due to a left quadriceps injury sustained during the first match. This development came as a blow to the Lankan team, who secured a 42-run victory in the opening encounter.

Chameera had been in impressive form, picking up two crucial wickets before limping off the field in his eighth over. Subsequent scans confirmed the quadriceps injury, sidelining him for the second ODI scheduled for February 11th.

In his absence, the Sri Lankan team management drafted young pacer Asitha Fernando as his replacement. Fernando, known for his raw pace and aggressive bowling style, will be looking to make his mark. Fernando has already played 22 games, excelling in the test arena but he is yet to crack the code in limited-overs. Chameera’s injury thus provides him with an opportunity to show his wares and become a regular inclusion in the ODI format.

Yet another blow for Chameera

Coming to Dushmantha Chameera, the quadriceps injury is the latest in what has been a long tryst with injuries for him. Sri Lanka’s express pacer is a cricketer of undeniable talent. His fiery pace and ability to swing the ball have made him a nightmare for batsmen. However, his career has been plagued by injuries, raising questions about his longevity in the sport.

Chameera’s battle with injuries began in 2012, just as he was starting to make his mark in international cricket. Early into his career, a stress fracture in his back sidelined him for months, and this was followed by a string of other niggles- ankle, shoulder, and hamstring injuries. These setbacks not only hampered his progress but also affected his rhythm and consistency. Despite the challenges, Chameera has shown remarkable resilience. He has fought back from each injury, returning with even greater determination. However, his injury woes continued, and in 2023, he was ruled out of major tournaments like the Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup due to fitness concerns.

Chameera’s injury susceptibility is a cause of concern for Sri Lankan cricket. The team lacks genuine pace options, and his absence creates a significant void. The 32-year-old is working hard on his fitness, and there’s hope that he can manage his workload effectively to prolong his career.