‘Three New Kings’ to herald a new era
'Smart, ice cool and very shrewd cricket brain' praised outgoing Test skipper Dimuth Karunaratne on his successor Dhananjaya de Silva
The cricket selectors’ decision to appoint Dananjaya de Silva, Kusal Mendis, and Wanindu Hasaranga to lead the Test, ODI, and T20 teams respectively marks a significant turn in the country’s cricketing landscape.
De Silva’s selection to replace Dimuth Karunaratne exemplifies the selectors’ emphasis on solidity and temperament. The right-hander has shown a remarkable composure and a knack for performing under pressure in the longest format of the game. His ability in handling different bowling attacks and anchor the innings make him a prudent choice for the Test leadership role.
His predecessor, who has nominated de Silva as the heir apparent as far back as in March last year, in Facebook post following de Silva’s appointment heaped praise on the 32-year-old batting allrounder.
“Smart, ice cool and very shrewd cricket brain,” he wrote, adding “I am very confident Sri Lanka Test cricket is in very safe hands”.
A veteran of 51 Tests, his experience and consistency in crucial situations make him a player who can inspire and guide the team through a challenging year where they will play 10 Test matches including a three-match Test series in England.
After Mendis replaced Dasun Shanaka during the World Cup in India last year, his elevation to a permanent role was expected. His appointment signifies a shift towards a more aggressive and dynamic style of play. Mendis is renowned for his explosive batting prowess, capable of dismantling opposition bowling attacks with his aggressive stroke play.
His elevation to the captaincy in the ODI format reflects the selectors’ inclination towards an assertive brand of cricket, where calculated risks and aggressive intent are pivotal. Mendis’ capability to innovate and adapt swiftly during matches could potentially rejuvenate Sri Lanka’s ODI squad, injecting a sense of fearlessness and competitiveness.
However, his recent form with the bat has been a cause for concern and many wonder if the added burden of captaincy may negatively impact his batting, as seen during the World Cup.
Hasaranga’s inclusion as T20 captain shows a strategic move to entrust leadership to a young, vibrant talent known for his all-round abilities. His ability with both bat and ball, coupled with his astute understanding of the shortest format, positions him as a prudent choice to guide the team in the fast-paced world of T20 cricket. One of the few Sri Lankans to play in the Indian Premier League, Hasaranga led B-Love Kandy to Lanka Premier League title last year, making significant performances both with the bat and ball.
His exceptional leg-spin bowling coupled with his ability to score quick runs lower down the order make him a valuable asset in T20 cricket. His strategic thinking and adaptability under pressure could prove instrumental in steering the team to success in a World Cup year.
This move by the Sri Lankan selectors also signals a departure from conventional choices where one or two leaders take the teams’ leadership role. Chief selector Upul Tharanga said the circumstances forced the selectors to appoint three captains, even though it should ideally be one leading all three formats.
“Under the present circumstances, we cannot appoint one leader for all three formats. After extensive discussion, we have decided to appoint three captains,” Tharanga stated during his initial media briefing after assuming the role from Pramodya Wickremasinghe as the chief selector.
Leading a team requires more than just individual brilliance as it demands astute man-management skills, strategic acumen, and the ability to foster unity within the squad. The new captains will face the arduous task of not only leading by example on the field but also nurturing a cohesive team environment off it.
The transition phase might pose challenges as the new leadership settles into their roles, requiring time for the players to adapt to the captains’ styles and strategies. The selectors must provide ample support and guidance to the appointed leaders, fostering an environment conducive to their growth and success. Time will tell how these players navigate their new roles, but their appointments undoubtedly herald a fresh approach and a promising future for Sri Lankan cricket.