T20 WC 2026: Vikram Rathour provides update on injured Matheesha Pathirana

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Sri Lanka is set to conclude its T20 World Cup 2026 group stage matches by playing a clash against Zimbabwe. The match is scheduled to be played on February 19 at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.

Ahead of the match, Sri Lanka`s batting consultant Vikram Rathour confirmed that slinger Matheesha Pathirana has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament.

During the pre-match press conference, he said, “I think he has been declared unfit for the rest of the tournament. I think the news will come out if it`s not already”.

He said that Pathirana`s replacement is yet to be decided by the management.

“As far as replacement is concerned, I think that is still being discussed,” added Rathour.

Earlier, during the group stage match against Australia, the right-arm slinger injured himself by clutching his left leg. Following the incident, he walked off the field and did not return to bowl in that innings.

The Lankans managed to defeat the Aussies by eight wickets at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. Following the victory, the side sealed its berth in the “Super 8” stage of the ongoing global showpiece.

The “Super 8” stage will kick off from February 21. Sri Lanka is placed in Group 2 along with teams England and New Zealand. The fourth team is yet to qualify.

Dasun Shanaka-led men will play their first “Super 8” match against England. The clash is scheduled to be played on February 22 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. They will then lock horns with New Zealand on February 25 at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo. The opponent team for their third clash is yet to be decided.

The title clash of the T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be played on March 8, with the venue yet to be decided.

Sri Lanka`s squad for the T20 World Cup 2026

Kusal Perera (WK), Dushmantha Chameera, Dasun Shanaka (C), Kusal Mendis (WK), Dushan Hemantha, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pramod Madushan, Pathum Nissanka, Maheesh Theekshana, Kamil Mishara, Dunith Wellalage, Pavan Rathnayake, Matheesha Pathirana.

(With ANI Inputs)

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