SL Vs AFG: Maheesh Theekshana Takes A Dig At England Cricket Team After Beating Them In World Cup 2023

In a surprising turn of events at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana took a subtle dig at England, suggesting that the defending champions may have underestimated the Islanders. Sri Lanka emerged victorious with a resounding eight-wicket win, potentially putting England’s semifinal aspirations in jeopardy.

Sri Lankan bowlers displayed exceptional precision on a challenging pitch, dismissing England for a mere 156 runs. Subsequently, Sri Lanka clinched the match with notable performances by Sadeera Samarawickrama and Pathum Nissanka, both scoring fifties.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Maheesh Theekshana remarked, “I think they underestimated our team because we also lost three games and we only won against the Netherlands. That’s why the result went our way because we backed our strength. We went in with a simple plan, so that’s why we won the game today.”

In the first four matches, Sri Lankan bowlers struggled, conceding a significant number of runs, including a 400-plus total against South Africa. Maheesh Theekshana acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, saying, “In the first four games, we didn’t bowl well in the middle overs. I think we lost three games because of our bowling. So, we did some practice sessions to get more discipline.”

Maheesh Theekshana also noted that the pitch at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, typically favorable to batsmen, displayed a different character in this match, providing opportunities for bowlers. He explained, “I have played an IPL match (here) and the pitch was different. (Today) there was a bit of turn, pace, and bounce. In that IPL match, the pitch was flat and scoring runs was relatively easy.”

Maheesh Theekshana Praises Angelo Mathews And Lahiru Kumara

The young spinner praised pacers Angelo Mathews and Lahiru Kumara for their contributions, especially in taking crucial wickets. “In the initial four or five overs, we conceded a few runs due to our inability to find the right length. However, when Angelo took the ball, he used his experience to adjust the length. This allowed us to regain our discipline in bowling,” Theekshana stated.

The victory over England has significantly boosted Sri Lanka’s confidence, and Theekshana expressed their aspirations for the upcoming matches, saying, “Our confidence as a team has increased a lot. In this match, we got a very big victory. We are looking to play well in the upcoming four matches and reach the semifinals.”

Sri Lanka’s remarkable win against England has not only reshaped the dynamics of the World Cup but has also instilled renewed vigor and optimism within the Sri Lankan camp as they eye the coveted semifinal spot. Sri Lanka’s record against England in World Cup is already a good one with the Islanders winning their fourth consecutive ODI World Cup game against England.