Kasun Rajitha Ruled Out of Second Bangladesh Test, Asitha Fernando Replaces Him

Sri Lanka's fast bowling woes continue as Kasun Rajitha has been ruled out of the second Test against Bangladesh due to a back injury. Asitha Fernando will replace Rajitha in the squad, who had also been sidelined with a hamstring injury but has recovered ahead of schedule.

Rajitha sustained the injury during the first Test in Sylhet, where he played through the pain and claimed eight wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings. However, the injury has forced him to return home for rehabilitation.

"Kasun Rajitha will not be available for the second test match as the player has suffered an injury to his left upper back area," stated an SLC media release. "Kasun will return home to start rehabilitation work."

Fernando, who has 41 wickets in 13 Tests, has a strong record against Bangladesh, having taken 13 wickets in two Tests at an average of 16.61. His inclusion will provide Sri Lanka with a much-needed boost in the absence of Rajitha.

Rajitha's injury is the latest in a string of setbacks for Sri Lanka's fast bowling unit. Dilshan Madushanka was recently ruled out of the IPL with a hamstring injury, while Matheesha Pathirana missed Chennai Super Kings' opening game with a similar issue. Dushmantha Chameera is also a long-term absentee after injuring his left quadricep earlier this year.

Sri Lanka will be hoping that Fernando can step up and fill the void left by Rajitha in the second Test, which begins on March 30 in Chattogram.

Tags: #SriLankaCricket, #KasunRajitha, #AsithaFernando, #BangladeshTest, #FastBowlingInjuries