Sri Lanka white-ball captain Charith Asalanka is reportedly facing the risk of being removed from his position after returning home early from the ongoing tour of Pakistan. The situation has created a major stir in Sri Lankan cricket, and former fast-bowling legend Lasith Malinga has now stepped forward in strong support of the skipper.
Security Fears Trigger the Controversy
The matter took shape when reports emerged that the Sri Lankan squad wanted to return home following the deadly suicide bombing in Islamabad. The attack brought back painful memories of the 2009 terror strike in Lahore, when the Sri Lankan team bus was ambushed, injuring several players and killing security personnel and civilians.
Although PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi and Field Marshal Asim Munir assured the team of high-level security, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) issued a stern warning that any player leaving the tour could face a “formal review.”
SLC Announces Asalanka’s Return Due to ‘Illness’
Just hours after the warning, SLC surprisingly announced that Asalanka and fast bowler Asitha Fernando would return home due to “illness,” without offering additional details.
In their statement on X, SLC wrote:
“Two Players Returning Home… Captain Charith Asalanka and fast bowler Asitha Fernando… will return home… This precautionary decision ensures they receive proper care and sufficient time to recover.”
Reports Claim Asalanka Led Player Discussions
Fresh reports in Sri Lanka claim that Asalanka played a central role in discussions within the team about leaving Pakistan. As captain, he reportedly led the conversations and spoke on behalf of the squad, which has now placed him under the scanner.
Malinga Stands Firmly With the Sri Lanka Captain
Lasith Malinga expressed his support through a Facebook post, praising Asalanka for standing up for his teammates.
“As a leader, you spoke for all the other players under you,” Malinga wrote. “Today, it seems you are carrying the consequences alone, Chariya. If you did not speak for all the players, then they would still call you a spineless leader today. Respect for having the courage to speak out. See you at the T20 World Cup.”
Dasun Shanaka Takes Over Captaincy
In the aftermath of the controversy, SLC appointed former captain Dasun Shanaka to lead the side in the Pakistan–Sri Lanka–Zimbabwe tri-series, which is currently being played in Rawalpindi.
Stay updated with the latest Cricket News, Match Predictions, Fantasy Tips, and Live Cricket Action—only on Today Cricket Matches!