Sanath Jayasuriya Urges Patience as Sri Lanka Prepares for ODI Series Against India

Sri Lanka’s interim coach Sanath Jayasuriya has called for patience as the team gets ready for the ODI series against India. The island nation recently lost 3-0 in the T20I series against the reigning ICC Men’s T20 World Cup champions and is dealing with injuries to key players like Binura Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, and Nuwan Thushara.

Despite these challenges, Jayasuriya wants the rest of the squad to step up and perform well. He stated, “I’m interim coach and I’ve only got these two series, but that’s not how I think. When I was playing, and even now, I hate to lose. The players who are around now know that too.”

Jayasuriya also emphasized the importance of creating a good environment for the players to be mentally prepared and confident. He is particularly supportive of new captain Charith Asalanka, who has struggled recently but is backed by Jayasuriya to shine in the ODI format. “Charith Asalanka is one of our best players in this (ODI) format, and we need to remember that. But when you get the captaincy, there is some pressure. I’ve been there too. You have got to give them a little time in that position,” Jayasuriya added.

Jayasuriya concluded by highlighting the need for the entire team to support Asalanka, saying, “There are ten more players in the side and 16 in the squad. We all have to get together and give him the confidence too. At any moment, the captain could click. Charith Asalanka is someone who works really hard. He’s very professional and communicates well.”