Sri Lanka were officially knocked out of the T20 World Cup after defeat against New Zealand, their second loss of the Super Eight, as Dasun Shanaka blamed external negativity and difficult pitches for the downfall.
The co-hosts were beaten by 61 runs in Colombo, becoming the first team eliminated from semi-final contention after successive defeats left their campaign struggling under intense public criticism.
Sri Lanka had already faced scrutiny following poor limited-overs results since the middle of last year, and losses to Zimbabwe and England deepened pressure before facing New Zealand in the crucial game.
Shanaka said constant negativity outside the dressing room created a damaging atmosphere, adding that criticism had overshadowed constructive discussion and harmed the broader environment of Sri Lankan cricket.
The right-arm pacer suggested the level of negativity had become severe enough to require government intervention, arguing that protecting the mental health of future players should be considered seriously.
On the field, Shanaka admitted he and the team management misread the Khettarama surface, which offered significant assistance to spin bowlers from the early stages of the match.
It is worth noting that Sri Lanka lost six wickets to spinners against New Zealand and managed only 107 for eight, struggling to build partnerships in conditions they had expected to favour batting.
Shanaka said he had anticipated more batting-friendly pitches in the ongoing marquee tournament, maintaining that the squad was selected based on domestic performances and proven strike rates.
Injuries further disrupted preparations, with Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana sidelined during matches, while Eshan Malinga was ruled out before the tournament began.
The Sri Lankan skipper apologised to supporters who attended matches in Colombo and Pallekele, saying the team had failed to meet expectations despite a strong desire to reach the semi-finals.
