Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka has revealed how a positive dressing-room mindset, tactical decisions and confidence inspired by England’s batting performance helped Sri Lanka pull off a historic 430-run chase in Rawalpindi.
Sri Lanka secured a thrilling two-wicket victory over England, completing the second-highest successful run chase in men’s ODI history with one ball remaining.
Speaking during a post-match interview, Shanaka, who smashed 97 off 50 balls, said the team had entered the chase with a clear plan despite England posting a mammoth 429.
Shanaka credited the team leadership for preparing the players mentally and establishing a clear approach to the game.
He said Harry Brook’s extraordinary double century had also inspired the Sri Lankan players to believe they could produce a similarly exceptional batting performance.
“If they can do that, why can’t our team do that?” Shanaka said, recalling the discussion among the players.
He explained that the team knew defeat would leave them almost out of the competition, making it essential to approach the chase with an attacking mindset.
Shanaka also revealed that Janith Liyanage had discussed the possibility of promoting him up the batting order with the coach Gary Kirsten, while the captain was also involved in the decision.
“I think it was the right decision to make in this game,” Shanaka said, describing the move as a turning point.
The former Sri Lanka captain praised Pavan Rathnayake and Avishka Fernando for laying the foundation for the chase after Sri Lanka lost two early wickets, including the run-out of their captain.
Rathnayake struck a magnificent 130, while Fernando contributed 97 in his return to the team.
Shanaka said their partnership gave him the belief that Sri Lanka could successfully chase down the target.
“The way Pavan and Avishka batted, that’s where I felt that the game is on,” he said.
He explained that his initial focus was on timing the ball, building momentum and taking the chase deep rather than attempting to finish the match too early.
Shanaka also praised Liyanage for holding his nerve during the final stages and hitting the winning six.
He said the victory was particularly significant for Sri Lankan cricket, demonstrating the team’s potential despite several match-winning players being unavailable.
Shanaka described the result as a major confidence boost for both the players and Sri Lankan cricket supporters.
“I feel it’s a very good booster to Sri Lankan cricket and for the players and to everyone that we can do this. So keep believing,” he said.
The historic victory came after Sri Lanka had suffered a defeat against Pakistan earlier in the tournament, making the comeback even more significant.
Sri Lanka’s successful chase of 430 ranks second only to South Africa’s famous 438-run chase against Australia in Johannesburg in 2006 in men’s ODI history. (Newswire)
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