ODI World Cup 2023: SWOT analysis of Team Sri Lanka

The 1996 World Champion Sri Lankan cricket team, led by Dasun Shanaka, is all set to participate in the 2023 ODI World Cup, marking their return to the grand stage of cricket. This squad, comprised of a mix of experienced players and rising talents, aims to recreate the magic of '96. Let's analyse their prospects with a SWOT analysis.

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Sri Lanka's squad for the ODI World Cup:

Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Kusal Mendis, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Janith, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Dilshan Madushanka, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara, Maheesh Theekshana, and Matheesha Pathirana

Strengths:

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Sri Lanka boasts a formidable spin attack, led by experienced campaigners and complemented by emerging talents like Maheesh Theekshana. In subcontinental conditions, their spinners could prove to be match-winners. However, they will miss the service of Wanindu Hasranga. Meanwhile, the team enters the tournament with several key batters in good form. Players like Kusal Mendis and Dimuth Karunaratne have the potential to anchor the innings and put up substantial totals.

Another advantage for Sri Lanka will be the results of the recently concluded Asia Cup 2023. Their recent performances indicate improved team cohesion and a competitive edge. These achievements boost their confidence ahead of the World Cup. On the other hand, as underdogs, Sri Lanka carries lower external expectations, which can relieve the pressure on the team and allow them to play with more freedom.

Weaknesses:

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While the spin bowling unit is strong, there's a shortage of spin allrounders who can provide depth to both batting and bowling. The team will surely miss the services of spin all-rounder Wanindu Hasranga, who failed to recover from injury before the tournament. The team has been plagued by injuries to some of their key players, potentially disrupting their lineup and team dynamics.

Opportunities:

Sri Lanka has historically performed well in sub-continental conditions. With the tournament being held on the Indian subcontinent, they have an excellent opportunity to excel and potentially clinch the trophy. They won the trophy in 1996 while the event was hosted in the subcontinent, and in 2011, they reached the finals while the tournament was hosted by India and Bangladesh.

Threats:

Injuries to key players pose a significant threat to their campaign, as they may force them to rely on less-experienced replacements. Another issue is Sri Lanka's pace bowling department, which lacks the depth and quality seen in their spin attack, which could be exploited by opponents in conditions favouring fast bowling.