Sri Lanka Cricket has called for "an urgent and comprehensive explanation from the entire coaching staff and selectors" following the team's 302-run defeat in their World Cup match against India in Mumbai.
Sri Lanka lost five of their first seven games to South Africa, Australia, Pakistan, Afghanistan and India, and have beaten only Netherlands and England. Their last two matches are against Bangladesh and New Zealand, and Sri Lanka need an improvement in performance if they are to finish in the top eight in the World Cup, to ensure qualification for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
"The recent overall performance and shocking defeats have raised significant questions about the team's preparation, strategies and performance," SLC said in a statement. "SLC management never interfered with the hired professional staff to carry out their duties and responsibilities as per the norms and regulations. However, SLC firmly believes in accountability, transparency and the importance of addressing subject concerns promptly."
The release lists four points which the coaching staff and selectors will be expected to address, namely:
"Strategy and preparation: Providing insights into the team's strategy, preparation and tactical decisions during the matches.
Team selection: Justifying player selections for each match and explaining any changes made to the playing XI.
Player performance: Assessing individual and team performance, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and addressing any injuries or fitness concerns.
Post-match analysis: Sharing post-match analyses conducted by the coaching team and explaining key takeaways."
While their on-field performances have been disappointing, Sri Lanka have also struggled with injuries throughout their World Cup campaign, with their captain Dasun Shanaka, and fast bowlers Matheesha Pathirana and Lahiru Kumara ruled out at various stages. They were forced to bring in Chamika Karunaratne, Angelo Mathews and Dushmantha Chameera as replacements, while Kusal Mendis stepped in as captain. They had also lost key legspinner Wanindu Hasaranga to injury before the tournament began.
There have, however, been some positives: left-arm quick Dilshan Madushanka's five-wicket haul against India took him to the top of the wicket charts in this World Cup, Sadeera Samarawickrama has emerged as Sri Lanka's top-scorer, and Pathum Nissanka has improved as an opener.
Sri Lanka's next game is against Bangladesh in Delhi on November 6, and their final league game is against New Zealand in Bengaluru on November 9.