Many are the reasons put forward by critics, self-professed or otherwise, as to why and/or how Sri Lanka was edged out rather unceremoniously at the quarter-final stage from the World Cup 2015.
Remember, Sri Lanka was runner-up both in 2007 and 2011. The causes for the present debacle however is really a subject far too complicated, lengthy, controversial and sometimes bordering on politics to be discussed here.
The simple question that needs focusing now is why was Sri Lanka’s iconic Kumar Sangakkara, making his farewell appearance in One-day cricket not given due recognition, especially on the world stage after his phenomenal performance. Mere sugary words do not serve the purpose. Something more concrete should have been the answer, such as a special award. True, the Australians practically swept all before them – deservedly so.
But look what the Sri Lankan achieved in this World Cup:
* Aggregated 541 runs at a stupendous average of 108.2
* Scored an unprecedented four centuries on the trot, in two of which he remained unbeaten. This purple patch yielded 450 runs at an average of 112.5. This feat is not only a new benchmark in World Cup cricket but also in One-day International cricket as well. No doubt these marks will not be beaten nor equalled for a long, long time.
Surely such a performance should not have been overlooked by the World Cup authorities. A token presentation should have been the logical answer.
Perhaps Sri Lanka Cricket could step in and fill the breach.
