Analyzing Sri Lanka’s Fielding Standards in reference to Asia Cup 2023
“Catches win matches” is an old saying in the cricket world. Cricket is played in three major categories – batting, bowling and fielding. All three departments are crucial to perform effectively in the game. Fielding is one such aspect of cricket which can be taken lightly but, if applied well, it can help teams win. In this article, we will take a look at Sri Lanka’s fielding standards as well as their key players in the Asia Cup.
The Sri Lankan team has been among the most successful teams in the Asia Cup with 6 major titles to its account. With a strong batting lineup as well as the legendary bowling magician coupled with strong fielders, the Lankan team has established itself as the strongest in the Asia Cup over the years.
Standards for fielding have been inconsistent throughout Sri Lanka’s history. They have over the years produced some outstanding fielders, but they have also occasionally had problems with consistency and lost catches. Depending on the players’ abilities, athleticism, and overall team performance, different fielding standards may be used.
In the upcoming 16th edition of the Asia Cup, it will be a test for the Sri Lankan team and their fielding which has been inconsistent over the years. Although some players had emerged as consistent fielders in Sri Lankan such as Kumar Sangakkara, who holds the record of absolute brilliance in wicketkeeping, Thisara Perera – the all-rounder players set the example of a consistent performer in all departments, Angelo Mathews – the former skipper was one of the greats who emerged as the perfect player with major contribution in all three departments.
It is noted that whilst Sri Lanka has won the second most titles in Asia Cup, all came with a major dependence on bowling as well as batting. Their fielding has been full of fluctuations. However, the Lankan team seems to have improved their fielding and as a result of which, we would see it in the upcoming Asia Cup tournament.
