Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has called for 'an urgent and comprehensive explanation from the entire coaching staff and selectors' after the team's 302-run loss to India in the World Cup match held in Mumbai on November 5 (Thursday).
Sri Lanka has faced challenges in the tournament, losing five of their first seven games, with victories against Netherlands and England. The team's remaining matches are against Bangladesh and New Zealand, and Sri Lanka needs an improved performance to secure a spot in the top eight and qualify for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
"Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has expressed its deep concern and disappointment over the performance of the Sri Lanka National Team during the ongoing World Cup 2023, particularly the disappointing loss against India yesterday. In light of these concerns, SLC has called for an urgent and comprehensive explanation from the entire coaching staff and Selectors," 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 call for an explanation from the entire coaching staff is aimed at understanding the reasons behind the team’s disappointing performance and identifying areas for improvement," it added.
Furthermore, the SLC has asked the coaching staff and selectors to address four key points which are:
1. Strategy and Preparation: Providing insights into the team’s strategy, preparation and tactical decisions during the matches.
2. Team Selection: Justifying player selections for each match and explaining any changes made to the playing XI.
3. Player Performance: Assessing individual and team performance, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and addressing any injuries or fitness concerns.
4. Post-Match Analysis: Sharing post-match analyses conducted by the coaching team and explaining key takeaways.
Injuries have plagued Sri Lanka throughout the World Cup, with captain Dasun Shanaka, fast bowlers Matheesha Pathirana, and Lahiru Kumara ruled out at various stages. This led to replacements, including Chamika Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews, Dushmantha Chameera, and Kusal Mendis as captain.
Despite the challenges, there have been some bright spots for Sri Lanka, such as Dilshan Madushanka's five-wicket haul against India, emerging top-scorer Sadeera Samarawickrama, and the improvement of opener Pathum Nissanka.
Sri Lanka's upcoming match is against Bangladesh in Delhi on November 6, and their final league game will be against New Zealand in Bengaluru on November 9.
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