Sri Lanka’s premier fast-bowler Lasith Malinga is set to miss the second ODI match between Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka tomorrow (2nd July) in Galle.
“Malinga who is just short of his 300th ODI scalp, has been diagnosed with a viral influenza. Medical reports have ruled him out of the next game and recommended a rest period of 48 hours.” the SLC media unit stated in a release.
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He is currently five wickets short of 300 in ODIs, becoming the fourth Sri Lanka bowler to the achievement after Muttiah Muralitharan, Chaminda Vaas and Sanath Jayasuriya.
Lasith Malinga who bowled 9 overs and conceded 50 runs for the wicket of Hamilton Masakadza in the first game where Zimbabwe registered their first ODI win on Sri Lankan soil is most likely to be replaced by Dushmantha Chameera.
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Since his return to ODI cricket during the ICC Champions Trophy, Malinga has been criticized heavily due to his poor fielding efforts in the field, dropping 3 catches in 4 games including Solomon Mire’s chance yesterday.
The selectors are yet to name a replacement in place of Malinga but according to reliable sources, fast-bowler Suranga Lakmal might be called-up to the squad as cover.
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Left-arm chinaman Lakshan Sandakan who missed out on the first ODI due to the same illness, is expected to replace Amila Aponso who leaked 77 runs off 8.4 overs.
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