The already depleted Sri Lanka team today suffered another blow with left arm fast bowler Binura Fernando being ruled out of the T20 series against India after sustaining a hamstring injury.
"Left-arm fast bowler Binura Fernando injured his hamstring when bowling in the nets yesterday. He has been ruled out of the entire series. He will be replaced by Shaminda Eranga", Sri Lanka captain Dinesh Chandimal said at the pre-match press conference.
The squad is already without regular T20 and Test captains Lasith Malinga and Mathews, both recovering from injuries, plus a few other experienced players.
All-rounder Tillakaratne Dilshan is also nursing a finger injury and will miss tomorrow's game but is expected to be available for the second match at Ranchi on February 12.
"Dilshan has a finger fracture. He will not be available for tomorrow but is coming for the second and third games," said Chandimal.
Speaking about the series, Chandimal said it offered a good chance to the youngsters to perform on the big stage.
"Four to five top players are injured. It's an opportunity for the youngsters, who have done well in domestic cricket to do well before the Asia Cup and World T20 championships. We are the defending World T20 champions but the retirements of Sanga (Kumar Sangakkara) and Mahela (Jayawardene) has been a big blow for us. Every team sees ups and downs. We are looking forward to do well here."
About his own inconsistent form, Chandimal said:"I am looking forward towards doing well. It's all about the mindset. Performance will certainly follow if I have a positive mindset," Chandimal concluded.
