![Picture Credit: X](https://media.sportstiger.com/media/binura-fernando-to-miss-opening-t20i-vs-india-ramesh-mendis-added-as-standby-player-sportstiger-1722011081436-original.webp)
Picture Credit: X
After injuries forced the withdrawal of Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thusara from the Sri Lanka squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series, the hosts have been handed another blow with Binura Fernando missing the opening game, set to be played on Saturday, July 27.
On the eve of the first T20I against India, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) took to X (formerly Twitter) to share an update on Binura Fernando’s health. The cricket board confirmed that Binura is suffering from chest infection, forcing him to sit out for the first T20I. “Binura Fernando has been hospitalised as the player is suffering from a chest infection,” SLC wrote in the post.
Ramesh Mendis added as standby player
Moreover, after Binura Fernando ruled out of the first T20I, SLC has added R amesh Mendis as a standby player in the squad. “Ramesh Mendis has been brought into the squad as a standby player,” SLC’s post further added.
Earlier, Dushmantha Chameera was ruled out of the upcoming T20I series, followed by the withdrawal of pacer Nuwan Thushara, who suffered a broken finger. Moreover, the SLC has added the left-arm seamer Dilshan Madushanka as Thushara’s replacement.