Jayawardene flies in to Bangladesh to strengthen Sri Lankan squad

The Lankan lions proved their strength in depth in the opening two matches of the ongoing tri-series. Sri Lanka started the tournament with a glorious win over the hosts, Bangladesh and continued their up-beat form against India winning the 2nd match by 5 wickets.

 The Islanders cruised to a relatively easy win over a power-packed Indian side, which failed to impress with both, the willow as well as the ball. Their happiness was cut-short by the three injuries which made the already depleted Sri Lankan line-up look naked.
The series leaders, Srilanka, have suffered 3 injuries, just 2 matches into the series. Tillakaratne Dilshan suffered a groin stroin during the first game against Bangladesh, while veteran middle-order batsman, Chamara Silva was ruled out of the tournament due to a broken thumb, which he picked up during a practice session. All-rounder Muthumudalige Pushpakumara injured his shoulder while fielding in the 2nd ODI against India.

Mahela Jayawardene, Mahela Udawatte and Dinesh Chandimal Lokuge have arrived in Dhaka today to provide reinforcements. The players have come in as replacements for Chamara Silva and M Pushpakumara who are scheduled to leave for home tonight. Dilshan, however, will stay back with the squad in the hope that his fitness improves in time for the final.

Injuries have plagued the Lions in the recent past and even affected their performance in the recently concluded series against neighbours, India. The young guns have thankfully put up a good show for Sri Lanka in this tournament, and will next hit the ground on Friday when they clash swords with the hosts, Bangladesh.