Colombo, June 19: They had a lacklustre tournament. Despite a world-class spinning all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga leading them in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, Sri Lanka bowed out in the first round and could not make into the Super Eight.
They had a few injury issues and the team balance for a global tournament like World Cup, was somehow not the same as they would have loved to.
After an early exit, the players from the island nation returned home and left the Bandaranaike International Airport amidst tight security on Wednesday.
Special security forces had been deployed inside and outside at the Bandaranaike International Airport as Hasaranga's side arrived via EK -650 Emirates flights from Dubai on Wednesday morning.
Instead of the usual Arrival passage at the BIA, the team members used a special VIP "Silk Route" Lounge, which cost USD 50 per person, an Airport spokesman said.
Speaking to the media, captain Hasaranga said that the team was eliminated at the first round itself as its performance was not up to the standard.
"We know what happened to us. We failed in batting, bowling and fielding. As the captain and as a player I am really sorry about this," Hasaranga said.
Following defeats by South Africa and Bangladesh, Sri Lanka's hopes of advancing to the next round were dashed when their match against Nepal was abandoned due to heavy rain in Florida. Their sole victory was against the Netherlands in their last group stage match.
After the disastrous end of their ICC T20 World Cup campaign, Sri Lanka will face India, which is scheduled to tour Sri Lanka in July for three ODIs and as many as T20Is.
This is not the first time, Sri Lanka faced a tough challenge in their cricketing journey. But like in the past, they are bound to make a strong comeback. Hopefully, hey would be a much energised, organised and attacking side, when they face Team India in July. (With IANS support)
