Sri Lanka all-rounder Dunith Wellalage says the team is focused on delivering a strong comeback as they prepare for a must-win Super 8 encounter against New Zealand in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Sri Lanka head into Wednesday’s clash at the R. Premadasa Stadium after suffering back-to-back defeats, leaving them with no margin for error in their bid to reach the semi-finals.
“We hope to give a good comeback as a team,” Wellalage told reporters. “Our preparations are very good. We have been practicing most of the time and the coaches are supporting the team well.”
Sri Lanka’s batting came under scrutiny following their previous outing, with several dismissals occurring while attempting quick singles on a slow surface. Wellalage acknowledged that the conditions had influenced decision-making.
“We always play according to the wicket,” he said. “The last wicket was slow and some decisions we made as batsmen, including myself, didn’t work out. But if we look at all five matches in this World Cup, we have done well as a batting unit.”
Despite the recent setbacks, Wellalage insisted the squad remains confident, pointing to consistent performances earlier in the tournament.
“This World Cup is very important for our country. Every player wants to contribute 200 percent when we go out to the field,” he said.
Sri Lanka have not reached a T20 World Cup semi-final since their 2014 triumph, and Wellalage said the current squad is determined to break that barrier.
“As a team, we have been performing well in recent times. We want to move forward and give our best starting from tomorrow.”
The 23-year-old also reflected on his evolving role within the side. Having bowled in the powerplay in the previous match and batted at different positions, Wellalage said flexibility is part of his responsibility.
“When I am given a role, I try to do it well and contribute 100 percent,” he said. “I am advised to be ready to bat at any time, whether at number seven or promoted up the order.”
On bowling during the powerplay, Wellalage revealed he had been informed the night before and prepared accordingly.
“I read the wicket and planned to vary my pace and limit boundaries. The idea was to build pressure through good partnerships,” he said.
Sri Lanka and New Zealand have faced each other frequently in recent years, and Wellalage believes familiarity will leave little room for surprises.
“As a team, we are in a good mentality. No matter the wicket, once we step on the field, we aim to give our best,” he said.
Sri Lanka must defeat New Zealand to keep their semi-final hopes alive in the tournament. (Newswire)