Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya said the team is not under pressure ahead of the final T20I of the series against Bangladesh scheduled on July 16 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. While he admitted that Sri Lanka committed mistakes in the last game, he remained positive and backed his players to bounce back.
In the second T20I, Sri Lanka suffered an 83-run loss in Dambulla. Chasing 178, they were bowled out for just 94. The batting collapsed completely with no batter managing to stay long at the crease.
Only two players reached double figures as Bangladesh leveled the series 1-1.
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Also read: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh Dream11 Prediction: Bangladesh tour of Sri Lanka 2025, 3rd T20I
Sanath Jayasuriya Plays Down Pressure Ahead of Decider vs Bangladesh, Backs Under-Fire Players
Speaking to the media ahead of the third T20I, Jayasuriya admitted that the team did not play well in the last game but does not believe it should create panic in the camp.
"We did make mistakes in the last game, but there’s no pressure. It’s part of the game. We need to bounce back, and it’s simple," Jayasuriya said as quoted to the media.
He highlighted the importance of one of the top three batters playing a long innings as the team failed to build partnerships in the previous fixture in Dambulla. In the first T20I, Sri Lanka's openers Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis had formed a 78-run stand and that played a massive role in their seven-wicket win.
"Ideally, one of the top three should bat through to set up a competitive score," Jayasuriya added.
Jayasuriya stated that while the pressure is there, it is important not to let it affect the team’s mindset.
"I don’t want to be under pressure all the time. This is too much. No one wants that. It’s a challenge, yes, but we’re dealing with it."
The head honcho further shared that Sri Lanka is using this series to try out various combinations. He admitted that not every plan has worked, but it is part of the build-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup.
"We’ve been trying different lineups, some have worked, some haven’t."
With Avishka Fernando out of form, Sri Lanka is considering bringing back experienced batter Dinesh Chandimal. Jayasuriya praised Chandimal’s recent form and his ability to play in different positions.
"Chandi is always in our plans. He can bat anywhere from No. 1 to 4. His experience and consistency could be valuable," Jayasuriya mentioned.
On Fernando’s poor form, he said the issue is more about confidence than technique.
"Avishka is a talented player with all the skills. His issue is more mental than technical, and that’s something we’re working on."
Spin-bowling all-rounder Dunith Wellalage has not featured in the T20I series so far. Jayasuriya said that decision is based on pitch conditions and team balance.
"Wellalage is always among our top 12, but sometimes he misses out due to specific match conditions," Jayasuriya concluded.
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Sri Lanka Eye Clean Sweep Across Formats
Sri Lanka have already won the Test and ODI series against Bangladesh recently. Now, they will look to win the T20I series as well and finish with a clean sweep across all formats.
The side led by Charith Asalanka Lanka will want to bounce back after their poor batting show in Dambulla. A better start from the top-order will be key.
