Reflecting on Sri Lanka\u2019s batting effort, Shanaka expressed satisfaction with the foundation laid by the top order but acknowledged there was room for improvement.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe had a pretty good start, and to be honest, I think the score we put on was good enough to defend. There were a few patches (of the match) where we could have done slightly better, but overall, I\u2019ll take that score today. I\u2019m really happy with the way Pathum (Nissanka) and Pawan (Ratnayake) played. I think it was a good total on this pitch,\u201d Shanaka said after the match.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Sri Lanka had looked in control after posting a strong total, with their openers providing momentum and setting up what appeared to be a defendable score on a surface that offered assistance to bowlers. However, Zimbabwe\u2019s composed chase denied the hosts, as they failed to make early inroads with the ball.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Shanaka pointed to the lack of early breakthroughs and the challenges faced by an evolving bowling attack, while taking responsibility for tactical calls that did not yield the desired outcome.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe plan was simple, as usual (with the ball). Take wickets upfront. Unfortunately, we couldn\u2019t get that started with the ball. It\u2019s a bit tough with newcomers coming in; they need some time to settle as well. But no excuses. We could have done slightly better. Some of my decisions were a bit of a gamble, too. It was one of those days where we could have done better with the ball, but again, no excuses,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Shanaka pointed to the lack of early breakthroughs and the challenges faced by an evolving bowling attack, while taking responsibility for tactical calls that did not yield the desired outcome.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Sri Lankan skipper also stressed the need for improved confidence and sharper intent on the field as the tournament progresses, stating, \"I feel we need to be more confident on the field. That\u2019s something we lacked today. Hopefully, we come back with a better attitude the next time we step onto the field.\"<\/p>\r\n\r\n