Can SL Break Its 10-Year Drought In T20 WC? SWOT Analysis, Team Rating & Report Card

Sri Lanka Men's T20 World Cup SWOT [x.com]

Sri Lanka are one of the 20 teams participating in the 9th edition of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the USA and West Indies from June 1 to 29, 2024. 

The Wanindu Hasaranga-led team has been striving to reclaim their former glory in the T20 format, having lifted the trophy only once in 2014 and finishing as runners-up in 2009 and 2012. 

Here’s a comprehensive SWOT analysis of Sri Lanka’s prospects in the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Sri Lanka's T20 World Cup squad

Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka. 

Travelling Reserves: Asitha Fernando, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage.

Strengths of Sri Lanka For T20 World Cup 2024

1) Variety of spinner & depth

Sri Lanka's spin department is one of their significant strengths. The team boasts a variety of spinners, including Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga, Kamindu Mendis, and Dunith Wellalage. 

This diversity allows Sri Lanka to adapt to different pitch conditions and opponents, giving them a strategic upper hand.

2) All purpose pace department

The Lankan pace attack is well-rounded, with bowlers capable of making an impact in various phases of the game. Dushmantha Chameera and Dilshan Madushanka can strike early in the innings, while Matheesha Pathirana and Nuwan Thusara are adept at controlling the death overs. 

This balanced pace attack provides the team with flexibility and depth.

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Weaknesses of Sri Lanka For T20 World Cup 2024

1) Untested Lower & lower middle order

While Sri Lanka's top order is solid, the lower middle order and the tail end remain largely untested. 

This lack of experience could be a potential weakness, especially in pressure situations where the lower order needs to step up.

2) Lack of big hitters

The team lacks explosive hitters who can accelerate the run rate and provide the necessary impetus in the middle and death overs. 

This deficiency could hinder their ability to post or chase down large totals.

Opportunities For Sri Lanka For T20 World Cup 2024

Multiple spin

The abundance of quality spinners in the squad presents a significant opportunity. Spinners can be particularly effective on slow pitches, and Sri Lanka can leverage this to restrict opponents and create pressure during the middle overs.

Threats For Sri Lanka For T20 World Cup 2024

Failure to hold nerves at the crucial stages: Sri Lanka has a history of faltering during crucial moments in big tournaments. 

Instances of batting collapses and "brain fade" moments have cost them dearly in the past. Addressing this mental aspect and maintaining composure during high-pressure situations will be vital for their success.

Team Rating

Prediction For Sri Lanka In T20 World Cup 2024

Sri Lanka enter the 2024 T20 World Cup with a mix of strengths and weaknesses. Their spin depth and versatile pace attack are formidable assets, but the untested lower order and lack of big hitters pose challenges. 

If Sri Lanka can address these issues, they have a good chance of making a significant impact and perhaps even reclaiming their former glory on the world stage.

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