Sri Lanka’s white-ball captain, Dasun Shanaka, is set to relinquish his leadership role ahead of the highly anticipated World Cup 2023. Shanaka’s decision follows Sri Lanka’s dismal performance in the final of the recently concluded Asia Cup 2023.
Under Dasun Shanaka’s captaincy, the Sri Lankan team endured a humiliating defeat against Rohit Sharma’s Indian side. The host nation was bowled out for a mere 50 runs in the summit clash in Colombo on September 17. In response, India chased down the target in just 6.1 overs without losing a single wicket.
As per reports, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is expected to make an official announcement regarding Dasun Shanaka stepping down as captain. Wicketkeeper-batsman Kusal Mendis is emerging as the leading candidate for assuming the leadership role of the national cricket team.
Also Read: Kamran Akmal Offers Cautionary Words to Pakistan Ahead of World Cup 2023 Clash with IndiaIn recent times, the 32-year-old Shanaka has experienced a dip in his international cricket performance. During the Asia Cup 2023, the right-handed batter managed to score only 54 runs in six innings, averaging 10.80, with a strike rate of 65.85. Since 2022, he has accumulated 489 runs in 33 matches, with an average of 19.56.
Dasun Shanaka played a pivotal role in rejuvenating the Sri Lankan cricket team following the retirement of several veterans. Under his leadership, Sri Lanka achieved 13 consecutive ODI victories, including success in the 2023 World Cup qualifiers.