Left-arm paceman Thilan Thushara will link up with Sri Lanka's World Twenty20 team in the Caribbean as an injury standby for Muttiah Muralitharan, Sri Lanka Cricket have announced.

Veteran spinner Muralitharan suffered a groin injury during last week's first-round match against New Zealand and although Sri Lanka have opted to keep the off-spinner with the team, his participation in the tournament remains in doubt.

Ashley de Silva, the SLC's head of cricket operations, revealed Thushara would fly out immediately in case he is needed as cover.

"Thushara will join the national team as additional cover for Muralitharan, who is recovering from a groin injury," De Silva said.

"However, he will only be considered for selection if Muralitharan is unable to take further part in the World Twenty20."

Source PA