Image Credit- ICC
Following the team’s 302 run loss to India in their
World Cup encounter in Mumbai, Sri Lanka Cricket has demanded “an urgent
and comprehensive explanation from the entire coaching staff and
selectors”.
Only the Netherlands and England have triumphed over
Sri Lanka in their first seven games, having lost five to South Africa,
Australia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India. Sri Lanka must play better in
their final two World Cup games against Bangladesh and New Zealand in order to
secure their place in the top eight and earn a spot in the 2025 Champions
Trophy.
“The recent overall performance and shocking
defeats have raised significant questions about the team’s preparation,
strategies and performance,” SLC said in a statement. “SLC management
never interfered with the hired professional staff to carry out their duties
and responsibilities as per the norms and regulations. However, SLC firmly
believes in accountability, transparency and the importance of addressing
subject concerns promptly.”
The release lists four points which the coaching staff
and selectors will be expected to address, namely:
“Strategy and preparation: Providing insights
into the team’s strategy, preparation and tactical decisions during the
matches.
Team selection: Justifying player selections for each
match and explaining any changes made to the playing XI.
Player performance: Assessing individual and team
performance, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and addressing any injuries
or fitness concerns.
Post-match analysis: Sharing post-match analyses
conducted by the coaching team and explaining key takeaways.”
In addition to their lacklustre on-field performances,
Sri Lanka’s World Cup campaign has been marred by injury, as evidenced by the
multiple absences of fast bowlers Lahiru Kumara and Matheesha Pathirana, as
well as skipper Dasun Shanaka. As a result, Kusal Mendis took over as captain
and they were obliged to insert Chamika Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews, and
Dushmantha Chameera as replacements. Prior to the competition, they had also
lost important legspinner Wanindu Hasaranga to an injury.
Sri Lanka’s next game is against Bangladesh in Delhi
on November 6, and their final league game is against New Zealand in Bengaluru
on November 9.