Eshan Malinga’s World Cup participation in doubt after shoulder injury – Dasun Shanaka

Eshan Malinga’s participation at the T20 World Cup is in doubt after the fast bowler dislocated his shoulder during the second T20I against England on Sunday (01), Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka has stated.

Speaking at the T20 World Cup Captain’s press conference in Colombo today, Skipper Shanaka said fast bowler Malinga’s participation cannot be confirmed as he is still nursing a shoulder injury.

Eshan Malinga missed Sri Lanka’s third T20I against England on Tuesday with the dislocated shoulder.

Despite the injury, the 24-year-old quick was named in Sri Lanka’s World Cup squad.

The incident occurred in the eighth over of England’s chase as Malinga bowled the first ball following resumption of play after a lengthy rain interval. Upon delivery release Malinga seemingly tweaked his left (non-bowling) shoulder, and clutched it falling to the floor mid followthrough. The delivery itself was wayward, arriving above waist height and given as a no-ball.

On Monday, Sri Lanka Cricket announced a 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Led by Dasun Shanaka, the squad features an experienced lineup with the inclusion of Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera.

Sri Lanka will commence the World Cup campaign against Ireland on February 8.

Squad: Dasun Shanaka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Janith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Eshan Malinga, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana and Maheesh Theekshana.

Sri Lanka’s group stage fixtures:

February 8: v Ireland, Colombo
February 12: v Oman, Pallekele
February 16: v Australia, Pallekele
February 19: v Zimbabwe, Colombo