Malinga, Mendis out of second game with viral flu

Seamer Lasith Malinga and top-order bat Kusal Mendis have been ruled out of Sunday’s second ODI against Zimbabwe with the viral flu.

“Medical reports have ruled them out of the next game and recommended a rest period of 48 hours,” Sri Lanka Cricket said in a statement.

Malinga was a pale shadow of himself since returning to the side after an injury layoff and picked up one wicket for 51 in nine overs. He also dropped a crucial catch of Centurion Solomon Mire when the batsman was on 94.

Mendis has been in great form in recent months and his absence will be greatly felt when Sri Lanka look to square the series on Sunday. Chamara Kapugedara and Suranga Lakmal have been brought into the side.

Sri Lanka lost the opening match by six wickets, as Zimbabwe successfully chased down a record 316 to win with 14 balls to spare.

SLC also confirmed that Chinaman, Lakshan Sandakan had sat out the first ODI against Zimbabwe due to an attack of the same bug.