Jayasuriya Quits Sri Lanka Job Salman Undecided

ISLAMABAD: (Web Desk)- Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya has announced his decision to step down following his team’s disappointing campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, while Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha said he would take time before deciding on his future as skipper.

Sri Lanka, co-hosts of the tournament and champions in 2014, managed to reach the Super Eight stage but endured a winless run in Group Two, losing all three matches to finish at the bottom of the table. Their campaign ended on a low note after a surprise defeat against Pakistan cricket team on Saturday.

Speaking after the loss, Jayasuriya said the time had come to pass on the responsibility to someone else. He revealed that he had made up his mind about resigning nearly two months ago and had hinted during the England series that his tenure was nearing its end. Although his contract runs until June, he said he would formally discuss his decision with Sri Lanka Cricket in the coming days.

On the Pakistan side, the tournament also fell short of expectations. In addition to a heavy group-stage defeat against arch-rivals India cricket team, Pakistan struggled with middle-order batting under pressure, while their slow bowlers failed to fully exploit spin-friendly conditions in Sri Lanka.

Addressing the media, Salman Agha admitted the team did not play to its full potential and said mistakes made in pressure situations cost Pakistan a place in the semi-finals. He added that both he and head coach Mike Hesson take full responsibility for the disappointing campaign.

Pakistan Face Do-or-Die Task Against Sri Lanka

The 32-year-old captain also expressed dissatisfaction with his own form but said he would not rush into a decision about stepping down. Calling resignation at this stage an emotional move, Salman said he would reflect carefully and announce his final decision only after returning home.