Over the years, Sri Lanka has seen a startling decrease in the 20-over format, when they were once a strong force. The island nation won the T20 World Cup in 2024, but in the four editions that followed, they were unable to advance to the semifinals.
Dasun Shanuka, an all-rounder for Sri Lanka, expressed optimism about the team’s present composition. In addition, he voiced optimism that they would win the 10th T20 World Cup.
We are assembling an excellent team. The top players are rising through the ranks, including Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and a few all-rounders. While we have experience, we are also growing a new side. We are an excellent all-around team. The Daily Star cited Shanaka as saying, “I’m sure we have a very good chance, especially playing in India and Sri Lanka.”
Shanaka noted that he needed more opportunities to use the bat and emphasised the distinction between his performance in the ZimAfroT10 and international cricket.
“I wish I could score hundreds of runs, but my position often raises issues. I miss playing long innings. In the Zim AfroT10, I batted fourth, and I did well in this competition. I occasionally bat deep down the order for the national team, which prevents me from batting for extended periods of time,” Shanaka said.
I’m itching to play the extended format. Dasun Shanaka
The 33-year-old has not been considered for the national team since January 2021, when he last participated in a Test match. He continued by expressing his desire to stand in for the red-ball side.
“We played in the home first-class season before leaving for England. I regrettably did not make it on that tour, even though I scored a few hundreds. Since I am skilled at playing the long format, I really want to do so,” Shanaka continued.
Also Read: Praveen Jayawickrama banned by ICC for one year
Shanaka, playing for the Harare Bolts in the Zim Afro T10 2024, scored 231 runs at an average of 57.75 in the eight innings he batted.