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In a shocking turn of events, the cricket world is abuzz with speculation about the integrity of the Asia Cup 2023 final between Sri Lanka and India. With Sri Lanka facing a crisis of missing key bowlers and the sudden, unconfirmed news of Dunith Wellalage’s reported multi-crore deal with RCB, questions are arising about the authenticity of this high-stakes cricket match.
Sri Lanka, known for its cricketing prowess, will be without five of its main bowlers for the crucial final game against India. Among these absences, Maheesh Theekshana’s injury has raised eyebrows. Theekshana, a key spinner for the Sri Lankan team, sustained a hamstring injury in their last-ball victory against Pakistan.
While Captain Dasun Shanaka described it as a grade three injury, the chair of SLC’s medical committee suggested that it might not have been severe enough to keep Theekshana out of the final had the World Cup not been looming.
Wellalage reportedly sold to RCB for IPL 2024 ahead of crucial Ind vs SL Asia Cup 2023 final
The controversy doesn’t end there. Reports, albeit unconfirmed, have emerged that Dunith Wellalage, a rising star in Sri Lankan cricket, has been sold to RCB for a staggering 8.5 crore INR on the same day as the final. This raises suspicions of potential match-fixing, with questions about whether such financial incentives could persuade Sri Lankan players to underperform against India intentionally.
Adding to the intrigue, Sri Lanka selectors have brought in Sahan Arachchige to replace Theekshana, and there is talk of including legspinner Dushan Hemantha in the XI. While Hemantha is a capable player, the sudden reshuffling of the squad so close to the final has fueled conspiracy theories.
Furthermore, it’s worth noting that Theekshana is just one among a string of injured players for Sri Lanka, including Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Kumara, and Dilshan Madushanka, all of whom are missing the Asia Cup, along with Wanindu Hasaranga.
The cricketing world eagerly awaits the outcome of the Asia Cup 2023 final, but as speculation and controversy continue to mount, one can’t help but wonder whether there is more to this match than meets the eye. The integrity of the sport hangs in the balance, and only time will tell whether these concerns are valid or merely the product of a highly charged atmosphere surrounding this crucial cricketing showdown.
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Pakistan and India have never met in Asia Cup final
