Dirk Tissera in Facebook , ? January 2026, where the title reads thus “TIME FOR DASSA TO SHOW HIS PASSA TO HIS CRITICS”
I’ve always had a secret grudging admiration for Dasun Shanaka. Some critics may laugh at this. He’s gotten on my nerves at most times … but in the third T20I against Pakistan, his nine-ball 34 runs with five sixers at Dumbulla helped Sri Lanka to a huge 160 off just 12 overs and ensured the Islanders drew the series 1-1.
With a rain shortened 12-over contest on a tricky Dambulla wicket, Pakistan won the toss and sent Sri Lanka in to bat. Although Shanaka has never opened the batting for Sri Lanka in any international format (Test, ODI, or T20I), it could have been a wise move if the skipper had to elevate himself as opener? Just my opinion!
In the mood Shanaka was in on January 11, 2026, he batted like a possessed man later down the order, smashing three huge sixers in a row for a grand total of five (hits over the ropes). His strike rate racing to a heart-stopping 377.77.
Fondly called ‘The Negombo Nailer’, Shanaka has immense talent. At (34) and recalled as Sri Lanka captain till the World Cup T20I 2026 World Cup, I guess he needs to think outside the box sometimes.
After many failures with the bat, Shanaka has somehow managed to perform at a few crucial times to keep his place in the side.
Now in virtually the twilight of his career, he needs to take matters into his own hands. The 34 runs he scored at Dambulla at the age of 34 may have cemented his place for the next couple of years.
Won’t harm if Shanaka decides to open the batting when the occasion demands in the future. He’s got nothing to lose. And since he’s leading the side until the World Cup … why not bowl his quota of overs.
Fearless leaders don’t have to be frightened of the coach or the selectors. Politics aside, Shanaka should play the game on his own terms going forward.
If he has any questions he should consult ‘Captain Cool’ Arjuna Ranatunga! I think it’s about time Dassa showed his Passa to his critics and asked them to go pound sand.
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