India vs Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka’s form has been extremely ordinary, says Aakash Chopra ahead of Asia Cup final

Former India batter Aakash Chopra has said that Sri Lanka skipper Dasun Shanaka’s form has been extremely ordinary lately. India is set to face Sri Lanka in the final of Asia Cup 2023 at the R. Premasada Stadium in Colombo.

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Speaking on his Youtube channel, Chopra said he is slightly wary of Shanaka as his form in the Asia Cup has been extremely ordinary. Sri Lanka beat Pakistan in a virtual semi-final in the Super-4 stage to advance to the final on Sunday.

“I am slightly wary of Dasun Shanaka in this match. His form has been extremely ordinary but he gets the best out of himself against India, especially in big games. So you have to be mindful of that,” said Chopra.

He went on to say that there’s no need for Sri Lanka to play Kusal Perera in the Asia Cup final against India, insisting that he is a better T20I player. Kusal scored a rapid 8-ball 17, hitting four boundaries before being run-out by Shadab Khan against Pakistan.

“I feel there is no need to play Kusal Perera. If it was up to me, I would play Dimuth Karunaratne. Kusal Perera is ‘kushal’ (skilled) but for 20-over cricket. If it is ODI cricket and a fast-bowling attack like India in front of you, I would go with Dimuth Karunaratne,” Chopra added.

Chopra also touched upon the injury of spinner Maheesh Theekshana, saying Sahan Arachchige might come in place for him. Theekshana picked up an injury while facing Pakistan and could be ruled out of the final.

“The big question is what will happen to Maheesh Theekshana, as they have called a backup for him. Sahan Arachchige, who is a batting all-rounder, has been kept. You might see him playing. He is a left-handed batter who bowls right-arm off-break,” said Chopra.

India will be facing Sri Lanka for the eighth time in the final of Asia Cup. The Men in Blue could win a record-extending eighth Asia Cup title in Colombo.