Believe in our cricketers, says Asia Cup winning captain Shanaka

By Shanuka  Aravinda

We often see  people praising cricketers when they win matches and criticizing them when  they lose. Social media is the best place to 
witness this.

People who are  yet to learn the ABCs of cricket often criticize cricketers when they lose  one or two matches. But one needs to remember that cricketers are also  humans.
Such incidents  were seen during the Asia Cup 2022. Sri Lanka lost to Afghanistan by eight  wickets in the opening match and were widely condemned. Sri Lanka’s Captain  Dasun Shanaka had to back the players and his role as the captain is  praiseworthy.

He answered  all the criticisms aimed at his team by winning the Asia Cup and commented  following the tournament, but with the tactfulness that was careful not to  hurt anyone, which is a good quality of a captain. 

He said,  “Believe in our cricketers. A lot of bad things were going around. As  cricketers, they too should enjoy their lives as well. Do not spread bad  things about them. They too have private lives. Keep believing, that is the  key. As a captain, I give confidence to the players. I believe in them. I  can’t ask more than that. I believe everyone will agree 
with me.”

“Two to three  years ago we played good cricket but the winning factor was not there. This  win will be a good turnround in our cricket. Continuing this for another 5 -6  years will be a good sign,” he also said.