Sri Lanka’s aspirations for next year’s cricket world cup received a massive hit yesterday as the country’s biggest weapon Lasith Malinga has been dispatched to Australia this morning to undergo a surgery which according to the doctors would keep the star bowler out of action for at least 16 weeks.
This means that ‘slinger’ will only be able to resume his full training and practice just about a week or two before the World Cup which starts in New Zealand and Australia on February 14 next year.
“Malinga will leave for Australia on Saturday morning as we are keen to see him recover as early as possible for the World Cup. Obviously, he is one of the most crucial players for Sri Lanka’s chances,” Sri Lanka Chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya said.
The recently appointed Sri Lanka T20 captain is certain to miss Sri Lanka’s home series against England who will play seven One Day Internationals from November 26 to December 16. In all probability, Malinga is also likely to miss almost all matches in the way ODI series against New Zealand who would also play seven ODIs from January 11 to 29 next year.
“We hope he will be able to play a few matches against New Zealand as it is important to get match fitness before World Cup starts,” Jayasuriya said.
Malinga will undergo an Arthroscopy surgery in his left ankle under renowned surgeon Dr. David Young at “The Avenue’ Private Hospital in Melbourne immediately after reaching Australia and will remain in teh country approximately for two weeks after the operation under medical advcie.
