Triple injury blow for Sri Lanka

Sanath Jayasuriya will miss the opening ODI against Pakistan © AFP

Sri Lanka have suffered a triple blow ahead of their opening one-day international against Pakistan, on Friday, with Sanath Jayasuriya, Chaminda Vaas and Ruchira Perera being ruled out.

Jayasuriya had originally been cleared to play in the match, but aggravated a thigh problem during practice and it was felt that he shouldn't be risked. This is the latest injury to hit Jayasuriya, who missed a large chunk of the VB Series with a damaged shoulder.

Vaas and Perera are carrying shoulder strains, which will put pressure on the inexperienced Sri Lanka seamers in their absence. Farveez Maharoof and Dammika Prasad, who were given opportunities on the recent tour of Bangladesh, could now be given a further chance to stake their claim for a regular place.

However, Michael Tissera, the Sri Lankan team manager, said: "We have yet to decide as to whether any replacements are to be called. The chairman of selectors Lalith Kaluperuma should finalise it after consultation with the team coach Tom Moody."

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