Charith Asalanka warns Gautam Gambhir and team India of giving it back to them

Sri Lanka is embarking on an exciting new chapter in their cricketing journey as they gear up for a three-match T20I series against India, starting on July 27 under the charge of Charith Asalanka, the newly appointed T20I captain, with the legendary Sanath Jayasuriya stepping in as the interim coach.

Asalanka brings a wealth of experience to his leadership role, having captained teams since his under-15 days. He has witnessed significant changes over the years and is now eager to inspire the Sri Lanka Cricket Team to new heights.

I really want to get 100 percent out of my players: Charith Asalanka

The star batting all-rounder's vision for the Sri Lanka team is about continuous improvement and growth, as the new captain urged his players to lift their game each day. The 27-year-old believes that this relentless pursuit of excellence is the key to becoming a successful player or a captain.

Asalanka said that he learned valuable lessons from the many captains he has played under and his primary goal as captain is to foster a positive and encouraging environment for the players so that he can get 100 percent effort from his players.

Charith Asalanka was quoted as saying by ICC: “From under 15 level, I have captained teams, and there's been a lot of change since then. That's what I tell my team members too--we can't be in the same place we have always been at. From day to day, you have to improve and that's how you become a good player or a good captain. I have played under many captains, and I have tried to absorb as many of their good traits into my captaincy and into my life as possible. What I really want is to get 100 percent out of my players, and to create a positive environment for them.”

Recognizing the abundance of talent within the squad, The newly-appointed T20 captain is determined to maximize their potential and lead the team to victory against India.

Charith Asalanka’s leadership mantra - Freedom, Confidence, and Strategic Execution

He encouraged the Sri Lanka team to play with freedom and confidence while following strategic plans without fear against the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian cricket team in the three-match T20I series, starting on Saturday, July 27, in Pallekele.

Asalanka signed off by saying, “We have a lot of talented cricketers, but what is important is to get the most out of them and have them win matches. I have told them to play freely and when we have given them plans, to go out there and execute them without fear. That is what you can expect from me as a captain.”

Here’s the Sri Lanka squad for the T20I series against India:

Charith Asalanka (C), Kusal Mendis (wk), Dinesh Chandimal (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Kusal Perera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Binura Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.