Sri Lanka’s new T20I captain Charith Asalanka has explained his mantra as the skipper of the side before the first match of the series against India. Asalanka was appointed as the new skipper for the series after Wanindu Hasaranga decided to step down following the T20 World Cup 2024.
Speaking ahead of the first match on Saturday, July 27, Asalanka said his captaincy will be based around man-management. The new Sri Lanka skipper said he wants to get 100 percent out of his players and create a positive environment for his players. Asalanka said he told the players to play freely and go execute their plans without fear.
“From under 15 level I’ve captained teams, and there’ s been a lot of change since then. That’s what I tell my team members too – we can’t be at the same place we’ve always been at. From day to day you have to improve and that’s how you become a good player or a good captain. I’ve played under many captains, and I’ve tried to absorb as many of their good traits into my captaincy and into my life as possible.”
“What I really want is to get 100% out of my players, and to create a positive environment for them. We have a lot of talented cricketers, but what’s important is to get the most out of them and have them win matches. I’ve told them to play freely and when we’ve given them plans, to go out there and execute them without fear. That’s what you can expect from me as a captain,” said Asalanka.
The Lanka Premier League (LPL) was heavily praised by Asalanka, as he feels the players who do well in the league can make it to the national team.
“If you look at the LPL, it’s the No. 1 tournament we have to make decisions like this,” Asalanka said. “More than domestic T20s, the LPL is at a much higher level. As a captain, I think if you perform at the LPL you should get a good chance at playing in the national team,” said Asalanka.
The T20I series between India and Sri Lanka will be from July 27 to 30.
