Ace fast bowler Asitha Fernando is set to make a comeback in the Sri Lanka National Cricket Team for the upcoming second Test against Pakistan. Initially included as the 17th member of the squad, Fernando was unable to participate in the opening game of the Test series.
Also Read: Top 5 active players with most catches in Test match cricket
The second Test match between Sri Lanka and Pakistan is scheduled to commence on July 24th (Monday) at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. This Test series consists of only two games, with Pakistan currently holding a 1-0 lead.
Asitha Fernando was also part of the Sri Lanka national cricket team for the first Test, but unfortunately, he contracted dengue fever before the match, which resulted in him being dropped from the playing side. Dilshan Madushanka was chosen as his replacement for that particular Test.
Fortunately, Asitha Fernando has now fully recovered from dengue and is back in the squad. However, there has been no official announcement regarding Dilshan Madushanka’s removal from the Sri Lanka squad.
Asitha Fernando, a talented right-arm pacer, has previously represented Sri Lanka in 11 Test matches, during which he has taken 32 wickets in 17 innings at an impressive average of 27.53. Since his Test debut in January 2021, he has showcased remarkable performances.
As the series stands, Pakistan holds a 1-0 lead following their victory in the first Test. Led by Babar Azam, Pakistan emerged victorious by defeating Sri Lanka by 4 wickets in a thrilling encounter. In the first Test, Sri Lanka batted first, scoring 312-10 on the board, thanks to a century by Dhananjaya de Silva (122).
In response, Pakistan posted a substantial total of 461-10 in their first innings, taking a commanding 149-run lead. Saud Shakeel’s remarkable double century of 208 not out was a significant contribution. During the second innings, Sri Lanka managed to score 279 before being bowled out.
Although Nishan Madushka (52) and Dhananjaya de Silva (82) hit fifties for the Sri Lankan team, Pakistan comfortably chased down the target of 131 runs with 4 wickets in hand. As a result, Sri Lanka now faces the task of winning the second Test to level the series.
