'I'm sure we have a very good chance' - Dasun Shanaka optimistic on rebuild of Sri Lankan T20I side

Once a dominant entity in the 20-over sphere, Sri Lanka have witnessed a staggering decline in the shortest format over the years. The island nation, which emerged victorious in the T20 World Cup 2024, have since failed to make it to the semi-final of any of the subsequent four editions.

However, Sri Lankan all-rounder, Dasun Shanuka, expressed a hopeful outlook on the current composion of the side. He also expressed confidence for them to go all the way in the 10th edition of the T20 World Cup.

"We are building a very good team. The best ones like Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and a few all-rounders are coming through the ranks. We're developing a new side and at the same time, we have experience. We are a good all-round side. I'm sure we have a very good chance, especially playing in India and Sri Lanka," Shanaka was quoted as saying by The Daily Star.

Shanaka expressed wanting to get adequate opportunities with the bat, and also highlighted the difference between his success in the ZimAfroT10 and international cricket.

"I miss playing long innings, I want to score centuries, but my position sometimes asks me questions. I batted at number four in the Zim AfroT10 and I've been a success in this tournament. In the national side, sometimes, I bat deep down the order, which doesn't allow me to bat for a long period," mentioned Shanaka.

Also Read: [Exclusive] Future of Sri Lankan cricket looks bright, credit to Sanath Jayasuriya and selectors: Dasun Shanaka

I desperately want to play the long format: Shanaka

The 33-year-old, who last played a Test for the national side in January 2021, has been out of the reckoning ever since. He went on to articulate his wish on representing the red-ball side.

"Before going to England, we had the domestic first-class season. I scored a couple of hundreds but unfortunately, I missed out on that tour. I desperately want to play the long format because I am good at that as well," added Shanaka.

Also Read: It's been a wonderful journey at Zim Afro T10: NY Strikers head coach Chaminda Vaas

In the eight innings Shanaka batted during the Zim Afro T10 2024 while representing the Harare Bolts, he scored 231 runs at an average of 57.75.