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Batsmen need to take responsibility: Dilshan

SHARJAH — It seems there is no end to Sri Lanka captain Tillakaratne Dilshan’s worries. One of the best team in the world, Sri Lanka is struggling to find winning ways.

They lost series in England and they were beaten in their own backyard by Australia. They were supposed to do well against low-ranked Pakistan but have been outplayed so far in the Tests and one-day internationals.

After the loss at Sharjah on Sunday Dilshan criticised his batsmen for poor show. The defeat cost them the five-match series. Chasing 201, the islanders were on course to level the series but collapsed and lost seven wickets for 19 runs to hand Pakistan a 26-run victory.

“It’s unbelievable to lose seven wickets for just 19 runs.

“Being captain I can’t do anything to change the players’ game. The players have to take the responsibility.

“Afridi batted and bowled well, but it was really disappointing to lose from a winning position. We were in a good position but we relaxed and no one took the responsibility. As a batting unit we should have to finish the game after making some starts.

“We could have won the last two matches and in result we could have wrapped up the one-day series.

“Today we were in a very good and lost the match. It is unbelievable.”

Dilshan has been emphasising throughout the tour that Sri Lanka is trying to groom youngsters. Chandimal is being sent ahead of Mahela Jayawardene but has failed to perform to his potential.

“We are trying to groom youngsters and they need to grab this opportunity. I hope in next six months they will be able to perform for Sri Lanka.”

While answering a question about his captaincy the opening batsman said: “The board has appointed me captain for South Africa series and I don’t know more than that. I don’t fear sacking but the time will tell how see how things move on.”

“We have a bunch of good all-rounders but they are not performing to their potential. If they bat they fail in bowling department. It is a serious matter and we will sit and discuss issues in detail.”

liaqat@khaleejtimes.com