Seamer Nuwan Pradeep has been ruled out of the remainder of the World Cup after contracting the Chicken Pox virus. Pradeep missed Friday’s game against South Africa after complaining of fever. However doctors have later confirmed that the cricketer has contracted the virus.  The right-arm paceman has taken five wickets in three matches in the tournament with a best of 4 for 31 against Afghanistan.

He is likely to be replaced by Kasun Rajith who is already with the team as an additional player. Sri Lanka team manager Asantha de Mel said a request has been sent to the ICC in this regard. With their semi-finals hopes now hanging by a thread, they will meet West Indies on Monday and India on Saturday in their remaining first round matches.