In recent years, Sri Lanka Cricket has faced several challenges and struggles that have contributed to its decline. Sri Lanka has witnessed frequent changes in team leadership, both in terms of captaincy and coaching staff. This lack of stability has affected the team's cohesion, strategic planning, and long-term vision. Constant changes at the top have made it difficult for the team to build consistency and develop a strong leadership culture.
However, Sri Lankan players showed some positive signs in the year 2022 as they lifted the Asia Cup 2022 trophy. As the Asia Cup 2023 approaches, the biggest question being asked by cricket fans is: Can Sri Lanka repeat its performance in the Asia Cup? Can they shock all the participating teams and display the same old dominance in international cricket during the Asia Cup?
There have been several problems with Sri Lankan cricket in recent times, and these problems are becoming deeper and more apparent with every tournament the team plays. The top bookmakers already have Asia Cup odds well in advance.
Quality of Players
Sri Lanka has traditionally been known for producing exceptional batsmen, but in recent years, the team has struggled to find consistent performers with the bat. The retirements of legendary players like Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene have left a void that has been challenging to fill. The inconsistent performances of the current batting lineup have contributed to Sri Lanka's decline.
Sri Lanka's once-potent bowling attack has also experienced a decline. The team has struggled to produce quality fast bowlers and has relied heavily on spinners. While they have had some promising spinners, the lack of a strong and balanced bowling attack has put pressure on the team and limited their ability to compete effectively. Since their win at the Asia Cup 2022, the Sri Lankan cricket team has not shown any signs of positivity, and according to stats, their quality has declined.
The team has displayed inconsistency and has suffered defeats against other Asian countries participating in the Asia Cup 2023. Another fact is that Sri Lanka has turned out to be a weaker team in the 50-over format, and achieving the same heights as the Asia Cup 2022 – which was a T20 format tournament – will be difficult for the co-host nation.
Selection Process and Internal Politics
Sri Lanka's selection policies have come under scrutiny, with concerns over inconsistent selection decisions and the management of young talent. There have been instances where players have been dropped or selected without clear justification, leading to confusion and a lack of stability within the team.
This has hindered the development of a strong and settled playing XI. It has also been marred by off-field controversies, including administrative conflicts, financial issues, and corruption allegations. These issues have hurt the overall functioning of the cricket board and have distracted players and management from focusing on their on-field performances.
In recent times, these issues have come to light, and the below-average performance from the selected players is an example of it.
Sri Lanka is still an unpredictable team, and during the ICC World Cup Qualifiers, the players have shown some positive signs. The team is on a path of improvement, and to repeat history in the Asia Cup, Sri Lanka will have to consistently secure wins, which in turn will infuse confidence among the players.
