Charith Asalanka hopes to steer Sri Lanka’s T20 journey with pragmatism
His appointment as vice-captain of Sri Lanka’s two white ball squads marks a significant milestone in Charith Asalanka’s cricketing career. “Firstly, I am deeply humbled and it is obviously a huge privilege. Some dreams do and can become a reality!” he gushes, reflecting on his new leadership role.
“I’m excited on the one hand. That said, it’s not gonna be a walk in the park. Sri Lanka’s white ball teams are well aware that it’s work in progress – when it comes to T20s in particular,” he notes, emphasising that success will require dedication and hard work from each and every member of the squad.
Asalanka feels the weight of expectations as vice-captain but remains focussed on the team’s goal.
“The vice-captain or any player has very clearly defined roles we ought to play. Most roles and responsibilities are part and parcel of the team’s ultimate goal. As vice-captain, needless to say the weight of expectations on me has to be a tad more than for the others,” he acknowledges.
Highlighting the dynamic nature of T20 cricket, Asalanka stresses the importance of enjoying the game: “T20 cricket is evolving faster than ever – very soon, 250 runs in 20 overs might be the norm! As such, the role and responsibility will and cannot be limited or in fact, specified.”
Sri Lanka’s white ball vice-captain continues: “However, enjoying the game is one mode of action I will always talk about with the lads. If you enjoy your game eight out of 10 times, decent results will become a reality,” he assures.
“When you get out there to bat, bowl or field, designations are immaterial; they don’t matter one bit. It’s simply how you as a player rapidly adapt yourself and your talents towards the need of the moment, hour or next few minutes of the game,” he explains.
Asalanka sums up: “It could be a cruise at 200 plus with four overs to go or five wickets gone with 12 overs to go. Therefore, a common sense approach is the need at any given minute, which matters most. Keep things simple is a prudent cliché.”