Consistency key as Sri Lanka and West Indies battle for ODI redemption
As per the latest ODI rankings, Sri Lanka is currently in seventh place, while the West Indies are in tenth. Both teams have struggled with consistency in the ODI format over the past couple of years, which has contributed to their low rankings.
Consequently, they both failed to qualify for the Champions Trophy scheduled for February next year.
Despite winning their last ODI series against India, Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka is focused on enhancing his team’s performance. His goal is to elevate Sri Lanka into the top three of the ODI rankings in the near future.
Sri Lanka skipper Charith Asalanka (L) and his West Indies' counterpart Shai Hope pose with the trophy on the eve of their first One Day International match at Pallekele - AFP
“Rankings are important,” said Asalanka at the pre-series press conference held at the Pallakele International Stadium yesterday.
“We need to win consistently to improve our standing. Being low in the rankings indicates lack of consistency. We have set our sights on the top three, and it will take time to reach there.”
Sri Lanka and West Indies will face off in a three-match ODI series starting this afternoon at the Pallekele International Stadium with the Day-Night match starting at 2:30pm.
Asalanka emphasised that consistent rankings are often linked to success in global tournaments. To foster a winning culture, he is dedicated to creating a positive environment within the dressing room, aiming for victories in as many bilateral series as possible.
“We need to leverage our strengths to secure victories. When playing away, we adapt to the local conditions, but at home, we back our own strengths,” he explained.
“Winning the series (T20I) in Dambulla has boosted morale. It’s crucial to maintain that winning streak, especially after coming from behind.”
As for team selection, Asalanka mentioned that 14 players have solidified their spots, making it easier to select the final XI based on pitch conditions. The batting order has been steady, but the choice of spinners remains a question. Wanindu Hasaranga,
Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, and Jeffrey Vandersay are vying for three positions, with Kamindu Mendis and Asalanka himself capable of contributing as bowlers.
Sri Lanka may field a spin-heavy bowling attack in the series opener against the Windies
“Right now, both Jeffrey and Wanindu will play tomorrow. They are our top two spinners, and Wellalage is also in the mix. We can utilise Wellalage and Wanindu as all-rounders,” Asalanka confirmed.
In the fast bowling department, Janith Liyanage may have the edge over Chamindu Wickramasinghe. Liyanage has made a significant impact in the middle order, scoring 386 runs in 12 matches at an average of 48.25. The captain emphasised the need for an all-rounder to contribute 10 overs, allowing for greater flexibility in team balance based on pitch conditions.
Pathum Nissanka, who won the Man-of-the-Series award in the ended T20 series in Dambulla, has been ruled out due to a quadriceps injury. However, he was seen training extensively at Pallakele alongside fitness coach Dilshan Fonseka. Notably, Nissanka holds the record for the highest individual ODI score for Sri Lanka, having made an impressive 210 not out against Afghanistan in February this year at Pallakele.
In his place, Nishan Madushka could make his ODI debut, or the team management could task Kusal Mendis to open the batting with Avishka Fernando.
Meanwhile West Indies ODI captain Shai Hope recognised the crucial role spin will play in the upcoming series and is prepared for the challenge.
“Whenever you come to Sri Lanka, you expect spin to be a factor. We cannot enter the series with a rigid plan; we must adapt to what the pitch offers,” he noted.
Reflecting on the West Indies’ past struggles, Hope remains optimistic about returning to their former glory.
“You can’t win every game, but to be one of the top teams, consistency is key. We need to be more ruthless in our preparations and performance on the field,” he asserted.
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