Following Sri Lanka’s early exit from the T20 World Cup, there were high expectations for a stronger performance against India. Unfortunately, the Charith Asalanka-led side couldn’t turn their fortunes around and lost the T20I series 3-0.
The series highlighted a lack of confidence and contributions from the inexperienced middle-order, which struggled to maintain momentum after promising starts in two out of three games.
After the exclusion of veterans Angelo Mathews and Dhanajaya de Silva post-T20 World Cup, the spotlight was on Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka, and Wanindu Hasaranga, all of whom underperformed. The final game saw Sri Lanka falter in chasing just nine runs off the last two overs against part-time spinners Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh, only managing to tie the game before losing in the Super Over.
As Sri Lanka prepares to face India in the ODI format from Friday, August 2, in Colombo, let’s explore three key strategies they can use to recover from their disappointing series loss.
#1 Win the ODI Series in Dominating Fashion
The 50-over format suits Sri Lanka’s playing style better, as the team relies more on traditional batters rather than power hitters. Players like Pathum Nissanka and skipper Asalanka, ranked 8th and 14th in the ODI rankings respectively, will need to play pivotal roles. Additionally, Kusal Mendis, with three 40+ scores in his last five ODI innings, can be trusted for impactful contributions.
Sri Lanka’s spin-bowling arsenal, featuring Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga, Akila Dananjaya, and Dunith Wellalage, is well-suited for the turning tracks in Colombo. This gives the hosts a strong chance to challenge India and secure a dominating series victory.
#2 Secure Significant Contributions from the Middle-Order
The middle-order collapse was a major issue in Sri Lanka’s T20I series against India. After solid starts from top-order batters like Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, and Kusal Perera, the middle-order frequently crumbled.
In the first T20I, Sri Lanka went from 149/2 to 170 all out in under five overs. In the latest outing, they failed to chase 30 runs off the last five overs with nine wickets in hand. Consistent contributions from the middle-order will be crucial for Sri Lanka to post competitive totals and regain team confidence.
#3 Ensure the Return of Key Pacers Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara
Talented pacers Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara were initially named in the T20I squad against India but were ruled out due to illness and injury. Chameera suffered from bronchitis and a respiratory infection, while Thushara fractured his thumb during a training session.
While both are unlikely to play in the upcoming ODI series, their return will be crucial for Sri Lanka’s future matches. Chameera’s experience, with 56 scalps in 50 ODI appearances, and Thushara’s impressive 19 wickets in 11 T20Is, will provide the team with reliable options for consistent breakthroughs in all game stages.
As Sri Lanka looks to rebuild and recover from their recent setbacks, these strategies will be pivotal in restoring confidence and achieving success in their upcoming series.