Sri Lanka’s interim head coach, Sanath Jayasuriya, has disclosed that a viral flu has affected several players on the team. Jayasuriya made this announcement ahead of the first ODI against India, scheduled for August 2 at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

The Sri Lankan squad is already grappling with injury issues that have severely impacted their fast-bowling lineup. Fast bowlers Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara were previously sidelined, with Chameera out due to illness and Thushara suffering a thumb fracture. Both players missed the T20I series and will not be available for the ODIs.

Adding to the team’s woes, recent injuries have also plagued fast bowlers Dilshan Madushanka and Matheesha Pathirana. Madushanka has a hamstring injury, while Pathirana is dealing with a shoulder issue. Pathirana had been a standout performer in the T20I series, taking 5 wickets in two matches.

Sanath Jayasuriya admits ‘Viral flu’ in Sri Lanka’s team affecting the team combination

While speaking at a press conference ahead of the first ODI against India, Sanath Jayasuriya broke the news of a ‘viral flu’ in the team. Jayasuriya also revealed that players like Theekshana and Hasaranga also suffered from the flu but recovered just in time to be available.

“We have brought Pramod Madushan into our squad. There’s also a viral flu in the team and we need to account for that. Maheesh Theekshana was sick and he recovered enough to play. Wanindu Hasaranga also had it. There were several who caught it and in the end, we even had to admit Binura Fernando to the hospital,” Jayasuriya was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo

Sri Lanka endured a humiliating 3-0 series loss to T20 World Champions India. Despite having opportunities in each match, they repeatedly failed to capitalize on key moments. Their best chance came in the third T20I, but they once again lost a favorable position as India kept their composure to secure the victory. Though the match was inconsequential in terms of the series outcome, a win could have bolstered the home team’s confidence.

I hate to lose even now, claims Sanath Jayasuriya

Jayasuriya further mentioned that he is trying to do as much as he can for the team. He admitted that he hates to lose a game even now that he is not on the playing field.

“I’m interim coach and I’ve only got these two series, but that’s not how I think. When I was playing, and even now, I hate to lose. The players who are around now know that too. When I talk to them, I tell them that fans in this country love the game, and a lot of us, including me, have brought cricket into this country to a certain place. I’ve spoken about that a lot individually with players and as a team. In terms of facilities and practice, I’ve tried to do as much as I can,” he added in the same interaction.