The Sri Lanka cricket board on Monday said that two players will return home from Pakistan and will not be part of the upcoming T20 tri-series.In a post on its official X handle, Sri Lanka Cricket said: “Captain Charith Asalanka and fast bowler Asitha Fernando, both suffering from illness, will return home.”The board added, “The two players will not take part in the upcoming tri-series featuring Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe.”Calling the move a “precautionary” step, SLC said the “decision ensures they receive proper care and sufficient time to recover ahead of future assignments.”
Sri Lanka also confirmed that “Dasun Shanaka will lead Sri Lanka during the tri-series” in Asalanka’s absence.Pavan Rathnayake has been added to the T20I squad as a replacement.It is worth noting that following suicide bombing in Islamabad that killed 12 people and wounded 27, at least 8 Sri Lankan players had asked to leave Pakistab last week over security fears but the Sri Lankan board said its players will stay in Pakistan to complete an ODI series and a subsequent T20 tri-series.Sri Lanka Cricket had also warned of disciplinary action if any player attempted to leave.Pakistan completed a 3-0 ODI series sweep over Sri Lanka on Sunday with a six-wicket win in the third match, with 32 balls left.The T20 tri-series between Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe will be played in Rawalpindi. Pakistan will face Zimbabwe in the opening match on Tuesday.
