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“We Simply Need to Bounce Back” – Jayasuriya Remains Calm Ahead of T20I Decider
Sri Lanka Seek Redemption After Humbling Loss in Second T20I
Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya has urged his side to remain composed and focused ahead of the third and final T20I against Bangladesh, following their shocking 83-run defeat in the second game of the series. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Jayasuriya said there was no added pressure, and emphasized the importance of bouncing back strongly to finish the white-ball leg of the tour on a high.
Sri Lanka, who convincingly won both the Test and ODI series, were bowled out for a paltry 94 in 15.4 overs while chasing 178 in the second T20I. Despite the heavy loss, the coach maintained that the team is well aware of their mistakes and is ready to rectify them in the series decider.
Jayasuriya Stresses on Batting Discipline and Experience
“Top Three Must Bat Long,” Says Sri Lanka Coach
Jayasuriya highlighted the importance of top-order stability, stating that one of the top three must anchor the innings till at least the 15th over if they are to chase competitive totals successfully. “We didn’t bat well. That’s the main issue,” he said. “One of the top three needs to take the responsibility to carry the innings. If we do that, we can build a platform.”
The Sri Lanka coach dismissed any notions of panic, saying:
“It’s not about pressure. We’ve already won the Test and ODI series. We just need to finish the T20 series well. The players are motivated, and they know what’s expected of them.”
Jayasuriya added that Sri Lanka’s experienced bowlers have clarity on their roles and will be expected to deliver in crucial phases. He also praised the cricket-loving public in Bangladesh and said the players are aware of the responsibility they carry.
📌 Related Reading: Sri Lanka’s Clinical Win in ODI Series vs Bangladesh
Salahuddin: “Bangladesh Looking to End Series on a High”
Momentum from Second T20I Victory Boosts Bangladesh’s Confidence
On the other side, Bangladesh’s senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin expressed confidence that the home side can carry forward the momentum gained from their dominant second T20I win.
“We played good cricket last game and that builds confidence,” Salahuddin told reporters. “We want to end this series with another strong performance, and InshaAllah, we will try to play well in all departments—batting, bowling, and fielding.”
Salahuddin praised the team for their efforts and said the focus is now on consistency and maintaining the same intensity.
Mental Pressure in Bangladesh Cricket: A Coach’s Perspective
Salahuddin also offered candid insights into the mental challenges faced by Bangladeshi players, acknowledging that the pressure of expectations and lack of alternative career options adds to their burden.
“In countries like Australia or England, players can fall back on other opportunities. But in Bangladesh, cricket is everything. It’s natural for players to feel pressure, especially when their families rely on them. We are trying to help them build a stronger mindset.”
He further emphasized the importance of media responsibility, stating that even small articles can weigh heavily on players who are already under stress.
Litton Das’s Captaincy: Strength and Overthinking
Salahuddin Urges the Skipper to Enjoy the Game
Addressing concerns around Litton Das’s captaincy, Salahuddin backed the Bangladesh skipper but acknowledged that overthinking could be impacting his natural game.
“He’s a smart cricketer and thinks deeply about the game,” said Salahuddin. “But sometimes he overthinks, and that can reduce enjoyment. We’re helping him find a better balance so that he can lead effectively without the weight of unnecessary pressure.”
Final Match Set for High Stakes and Redemption
The final T20I promises to be a high-stakes contest, with Sri Lanka aiming to finish their tour on a winning note and Bangladesh motivated to pull off a memorable series comeback at home. Both teams have shown brilliance in phases, but consistency will be the key when they take the field in front of a passionate Dhaka crowd.
For Sri Lanka, the focus remains on batting discipline, while for Bangladesh, momentum and mental clarity will be the driving forces.
🔗 Read More: Latest Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka Series Stats on ESPNcricinfo
