South Africa vs Sri Lanka 2019: 5 takeaways from the ODI series

#2. Crisis in Sri Lankan Batting

Performance of Sri Lankan batsmen in this series was poor

While the Test series produced new batting stars for Sri Lanka, the ODIs were a complete and utter disaster. Nobody except Kusal Mendis showed any fight and even he got run out three times.

This is a full-blown crisis for the emerald islanders before the World Cup. As things stand, nobody except Mendis is certain to be in the top-7 of the playing XI for the upcoming event in England. There is no doubt that Angelo Mathews will have to be brought back. Same has to be done with Dinesh Chandimal.

The latter was dropped from the Test team and stripped of the captaincy after the Australia tour. His punishment was extended for the ODIs also. But with a batting line-up devoid of experience and currently without any young player ready to put his hand up, his services are badly needed.

Upul Tharanga, the veteran opener, had an extremely disappointing series and may well have to pay for it with his place in the team. Kusal Perera’s injury denied him the opportunity to follow his great exploit from the Tests into the ODIs. But he is certain to be brought back when fit.

Youngsters brought into the team failed to inspire any hope. Some of them, though, may well be given another chance if the selectors trust their talent. One man who may not be so lucky is Dhananjaya de Silva. He has not lived up to the expectations aroused by his match-saving hundred against India in 2017. In ODIs especially, he has been even more barren with runs.

The selectors will have to make some difficult decisions regarding the retaining and axing of players. Their job can’t be envied.