Sri Lankan T20 cricket captain and allrounder Dasun Shanaka has said that his team is eager to leave a major footprint during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Sri Lanka has suffered a lot of defeats in the past 6 years or so as former greats Sangakarra, Jayawardene, Dilshan, and later Malinga left the team one-by-one. The team has gone through a large number of changes since then and has been in a lengthy rebuilding process.
Despite the rebuild, the team presents a solid seam combination of Lahiru Kumara and Dushmanta Chameera while spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has had moments of brilliance. The batting department is a matter of concern and except Chamika Karuratne, the batters have lacked intent. However, the team is still the favorite to claim the two spots for the Super 12s in the first round. Sri Lanka will start the campaign by playing Nambia on 18 October. Afterward, the team will play Netherlands and Ireland.
If you recall, that squad had a lot of variety and depth. And with the youngsters we have coming through now I feel have the same potential, but the only thing lacking is the experience. If our guys perform to their strengths I feel they can go a long way in this tournament. Our fans in Sri Lanka have been waiting a long time for us to be successful, and I hope we can make them proud.
Dasun Shanaka, Captain, Sri Lanka T20 team