Sri Lanka Cricket: Questions hang on Hathurusinghe and Malinga

COLOMBO (News 1st): Chandika Hathurusinghe, Head Coach of the National Cricket team, has been called to the island after the 4-0 ODI series defeat against South Africa. Following a sensational victory in the test series under the captaincy of Dimuth Karunaratne, Sri Lanka suffered a major defeat in the ODI series. Many have questioned the leadership of Lasith Malinga, and his future as captain of the Sri Lankan camp, for he has failed to win a single ODI as the captain in 14 matches. Some critics point out that Malinga, who is said to be hoping to participate in the upcoming Indian Premier League, does not have the responsibility of leading the national team. In such a backdrop, it is surprising to note that Angelo Perera, who scored two double centuries in 1st class cricket and excelled in the domestic league, was not called to play in South Africa until the 4th ODI. No other evidence is required for Angelo Perera, being one of just two players who has managed to score two double-centuries in both innings in a single match. In the past, we have highlighted on the grand salary that the head coach of the national team Chandika Hathurusinghe. While facing a series of defeats with no decision taken regarding him, it is reported that Sri Lanka Cricket had requested him to come back to the country to discuss his plans for the upcoming World Cup. However, has Hathurusinghe delivered the results expected of him since he commenced his role as the head coach of the Sri Lanka cricket team? In the past, we have also highlighted how social media had responded after reports emerged that the national team is divided into several groups. Therefore there is no need to waste more time in taking a decision against Hathurusinghe, who is enjoying a grand salary along with unlimited powers. There have been allegations that he was getting paid by other means, apart from what is included in his contract. Necessary action must be taken by appointing officials of the Attorney General's Department or relevant officials. The cricket fans say that the Minister of Sports has no room to get away from taking responsibility on a corrupt act of foreign income outflow from the country. Sri Lanka is a paradise of talented cricketers. The only aspect we are lacking to win is proper team management.