By: Staff Writer

February 26, Colombo (LNW): Following Sri Lanka’s disappointing defeat to New Zealand yesterday, former national captain Kumar Sangakkara has called for sweeping changes across the country’s cricketing structure, warning that failure to evolve could leave the team trailing behind the modern game.

Taking to social media platform X, Sangakkara spoke candidly about the emotional toll of the loss, acknowledging the frustration felt by supporters and players alike. He noted that such defeats weigh heavily within the dressing room, recalling his own experiences during difficult periods in his playing career.

“There is deep disappointment everywhere — among the fans and within the squad,” he wrote, adding that representing one’s country is both an honour and a heavy responsibility. While expressing sympathy for the current players, he stressed that accountability comes hand in hand with wearing the national colours.

Sangakkara emphasised that incremental adjustments would not suffice. In his view, Sri Lankan cricket requires a comprehensive reassessment — from grassroots development and domestic structures to strategic planning at the highest level. He cautioned that persisting with outdated methods in a rapidly advancing global cricket landscape would only widen the gap between Sri Lanka and leading nations.

“The game around us has transformed at pace,” he observed, suggesting that innovation, fitness standards, tactical awareness and data-driven preparation now define international success. Without meaningful adaptation, he warned, the risk is not merely short-term defeat but long-term irrelevance on the world stage.

His remarks have since sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts, many of whom echo the sentiment that a period of honest reflection — and bold reform — may be essential if Sri Lanka is to reclaim its competitive edge.