![Gary Kirsten reaction to Dasun Shanaka dismissal. [Source - X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1792385648730_GaryKirstenreactiontoDasunShanakadismissal.jpg?type=hq)
Gary Kirsten reaction to Dasun Shanaka dismissal. [Source - X]
Sri Lanka suffered a disappointing defeat against Pakistan in the first Match of the ODI tri-series in Rawalpindi on Sunday. Chasing 306 runs, the visitors were eventually bowled out for 268.
Dasun Shanaka was the last recognised batter to fall, with Sri Lanka needing 50 runs off 35 balls. Sri Lanka head coach Gary Kirsten’s reaction following the all-rounder’s dismissal caught the attention of viewers during the tense closing stages.
Gary Kirsten Makes ‘Think’ Gesture After Dasun Shanaka’s Costly Dismissal vs Pakistan
The first match of the ODI tri-series in Pakistan was heading towards a dramatic finish, with Sri Lanka still very much in the contest. However, Dasun Shanaka’s dismissal completely shifted the momentum in Pakistan’s favor.
Shaheen Afridi was bowling the 45th over when Shanaka attempted to hit him over long-on. The Sri Lankan all-rounder failed to clear the boundary, finding Babar Azam instead. The camera immediately turned towards Sri Lanka head coach Gary Kirsten.
Here is the video of Gary Kirsten's reaction after Dasun Shanaka poor dismissal against Pakistan.
Kirsten appeared furious as he held both hands on his head, making a clear ‘think’ gesture from the dressing room. The Sri Lanka head coach seemed frustrated with Shanaka’s shot selection at a crucial stage.
The equation was still gettable, with Sri Lanka needing 50 runs off 35 balls. Shanaka was set on 28 off 17 deliveries, including three fours and one six, but his dismissal all but ended Sri Lanka’s hopes of winning the game.
Pakistan Bowl Out Sri Lanka After Dasun Shanaka’s Brain Fade To Win Tri-Series Opener
Sri Lanka needed 50 runs off 34 balls when Dasun Shanaka departed, with the visitors seven wickets down. The all-rounder was their last recognised batter, leaving the lower order with a difficult task.
Janith Liyanage, who was well set on 60 off 74 balls, had been dismissed just four deliveries before Shanaka. The two wickets in quick succession badly dented Sri Lanka’s hopes, making Shanaka’s dismissal look even worse.
Pakistan eventually bowled Sri Lanka out for 268 to clinch a 37-run victory in the opening match of the ODI tri-series. Shanaka’s dismissal proved crucial, highlighting why Gary Kirsten’s visible frustration caught attention.
