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“I don’t want to be under pressure all the time’’: Jayasuriya
Colombo, July 16 (Daily Mirror) - While acknowledging some shortcomings, particularly in the batting department, Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya said the team is not under any pressure ahead of the final T20 against Bangladesh in Colombo, despite their embarrassing defeat in the second match in Dambulla on Sunday.
Sri Lanka, having won both the Test and ODI series, were bowled out for just 94 in Dambulla on Sunday, chasing a target of 178, resulting in an 83-run loss that leveled the three-match T20 series 1-1.
Addressing the media ahead of today’s final T20 at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Jayasuriya acknowledged the shortcomings, particularly in the batting department, but stressed that the team remains focused and composed.
“We did make mistakes in the last game, but there’s no pressure. It’s part of the game. We need to bounce back, and it’s simple,” Jayasuriya said.
He said it's important that a top-order batsman anchors the innings in today’s decisive clash. “Ideally, one of the top three should bat through to set up a competitive score,” he said.
When asked whether the team is feeling the weight of expectations, the head coach replied, “I don’t want to be under pressure all the time. This is too much. No one wants that. It’s a challenge, yes, but we’re dealing with it.”
Jayasuriya also pointed out that the team is still experimenting with combinations in preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. “We’ve been trying different lineups, some have worked, some haven’t.”
With Avishka Fernando struggling at the top, Jayasuriya hinted at a potential return for veteran batter Dinesh Chandimal, who has yet to feature in the series but has shown strong form in recent Lanka Premier League seasons.
“Chandi is always in our plans. He can bat anywhere from No. 1 to 4. His experience and consistency could be valuable,” Jayasuriya said.
On Fernando’s dip in form, Jayasuriya defended the batter, saying, “Avishka is a talented player with all the skills. His issue is more mental than technical, and that’s something we’re working on.”
Jayasuriya also responded to queries about the limited game time given to spin-bowling all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, who has previously delivered strong performances at the Premadasa Stadium.
“Wellalage is always among our top 12, but sometimes he misses out due to specific match conditions,” Jayasuriya explained.
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