![Dasun Shanaka for Sri Lanka [Source: X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1772085029847_DasunShanakaforSriLanka.jpg?type=hq)
Dasun Shanaka for Sri Lanka [Source: X]
After Sri Lanka was eliminated from the T20 World Cup 2026 following a disappointing Super 8 defeat to New Zealand, captain Dasun Shanaka pointed to a deeper issue that he believes requires government intervention.
While Sri Lanka crashed out of the tournament due to an underwhelming bowling attack and an inconsistent, fragile batting line-up, Dasun Shanaka stressed that the growing negativity surrounding the team’s morale must be addressed, along with the intense public criticism.
Sri Lanka Meet Unfortunate Exit From T20 World Cup 2026
Except for a loss against Zimbabwe in the group stage, Lanka had a pretty good run against Ireland, Oman, and Australia, which helped them finish second in Group B and qualify for the Super 8 stage.
However, their Super 8 campaign began disastrously, as the team suffered defeat against England in their opening clash, which immediately pushed them onto the back foot in the race for the semi-finals.
Another loss against New Zealand on February 25 sealed their fate, knocking them out of the tournament with no chance of progressing to the next stage.
The defeat was not taken well by the fans, and it was visible in the stadium, as Sri Lanka seemed to be losing support even before the match ended against New Zealand. Nearly 90% of the stadium was empty, with crowd support visibly absent despite the team’s effort.
Also Read: Sri Lanka Captain Vows To Eliminate Pakistan From T20 World Cup 2026
Dasun Shanaka Addresses Negativity And Public Criticism
Speaking after the host's exit, Shanaka addressed a press conference, accepting responsibility for the defeat and highlighting the wave of criticism from outside that he said had created a harmful environment for the team.
“Actually, when considering this World Cup, Paddy Upton worked with us and we had huge support from him. As players, it’s very hard for us to control the outside noise. We mainly hear negative stuff. No matter how positive we are as players, there is a negative environment created from the outside. That’s a disadvantage for cricket in Sri Lanka,” Dasun Shanaka said.
Shanaka noted that the negativity within the dressing room, along with public criticism, should be reduced, as the players are trying to remain as positive as possible.
Shanaka Slams Public Criticism
Further addressing the culture of public criticism, Shanaka explained how it has affected the team’s morale.
“We only have this game and I don’t think this could be saved. When you go outside after this, you will also see how many are out there holding mics to criticise. So why is the negativity being spread like this?” he asked.
The Lankan skipper added that while the team accepts moral responsibility for the loss and understands that the public does not take defeat lightly, he appealed for less criticism to help resolve structural issues.
“Okay, we lost a World Cup; we know the reasons. We all have concerns. But negativity has come forward more than rectifying the issues,” he said.
Dasun Shanaka Urges Sri Lanka Government To Step In
Finally, Shanaka urged the authorities and the government to step in and protect young players from the psychological toll of public criticism and negativity.
“At least for the players coming up next, if the government could interfere and stop those, I believe that will be a great help for better mental health,” Shanaka concluded.
Dasun Shanaka’s Disappointing T20 World Cup Campaign
Speaking about the Lankan skipper himself, the skipper had a disappointing T20 World Cup 2022 campaign, scoring only 89 runs from five appearances.
He averaged 17.80, though at a healthy strike rate of 156.14. His tournament included single-digit scores and a golden duck, despite notable knocks of 30 off 24 balls and 50 off 20 balls against England and Oman, respectively.
Against New Zealand, Dasun Shanaka was once again ineffective. Chasing 169, Sri Lanka fell flat as Pathum Nissanka was dismissed for a golden duck. Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka also failed to make an impact.
It was only Kamindu Mendis who showed some resistance with his 23-ball 31, but it was not enough, as Shanaka managed just three runs. The collapse of the top and middle order saw Sri Lanka finish their chase at 107, handing New Zealand a 61-run victory.
