On Saturday, July 27, the Sri Lanka National Cricket Team, under new captain Charith Asalanka, faced off against the India National Cricket Team led by Suryakumar Yadav in the first T20I of their three-match series at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
This match marked Sri Lanka’s debut with Asalanka as T20I captain, following Wanindu Hasaranga’s resignation from the role. Hasaranga stepped down after Sri Lanka’s disappointing performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, where the team was eliminated in the group stage after losses to South Africa and Bangladesh. Hasaranga’s stint as captain lasted only 10 matches, with 6 wins and 4 losses.
Charith Asalanka, known for his ability to handle pressure, was appointed captain due to his consistent performances and leadership qualities, despite Sri Lanka’s recent struggles. Since his debut in 2021, Asalanka has emerged as a dependable batsman and has also led the U19 team and the senior team in several games.
Additionally, Sri Lanka has a new interim head coach, Sanath Jayasuriya, who will serve until mid-September. Jayasuriya was appointed following Chris Silverwood’s resignation at the end of June after the T20 World Cup 2024.
We were not up to the mark in the powerplay – Charith Asalanka
In the first T20I between India and Sri Lanka, the hosts opted to bowl first after winning the toss. Although the bowlers struggled early on, they made a strong recovery, restricting India to 213/7. Matheesha Pathirana was the standout bowler with a four-wicket haul.
During Sri Lanka’s run chase, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis gave them a promising start. However, their departures triggered a collapse, with Sri Lanka sliding from 140/1 to 170/10, ultimately losing by 43 runs.
Post-match, Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka expressed disappointment with the bowlers’ performance during the powerplay overs but was pleased with their ability to recover and perform better in the latter part of the innings.
“We were not up to the mark in the powerplay, but in the latter part, we came back pretty strong. Some stage, we thought they might get to 240, we did well.”
Charith Asalanka, while talking about the batting side of things, stated that he was unhappy with the way the Sri Lankan middle order batted and that they could’ve done a better job. Charith Asalanka indirectly slammed Kamindu Mendis and Dasun Shanaka as well as Wanindu Hasaranga and said:
“Little disappointed with the way the middle-order batted, we could have done better. (On the balance of his side) It’s an experiment, this is the way we should go in the future.”
