Sri Lankan skipper Dasun Shanaka opened up ahead of their clash against Afghanistan in the final group-stage match of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 which will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
In a video posted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on their official X — formerly known as Twitter — account, Shanaka was seen recalling his memories of the Pakistan tour.
"Talking about memories, we kind of have a lot of great memories here, especially the 1996 World Cup, which was in Pakistan," Shanaka said.
"This is the fourth time I have visited Pakistan, and I'm enjoying the cricket here and especially this amazing ground, I love playing here.
"Whenever we come to Pakistan, we know that the games will be high-scoring. We are expecting a similar wicket to the one during the Bangladesh vs Afghanistan match."
The 31-year-old also talked about how different 50-over cricket is as compared to T20s. and if there is any additional pressure on the team as they won the Asia Cup (T20I) last year.
"International cricket is always about pressure, there are do-or-die situations. I am used to this [pressure] as I have been with the team [for a long time].
"No, being defending champions is not an additional responsibility or a pressure. It's 50-over cricket, last year it was a T20I cup. Since it is a 50-over cup, we just need to stay and give ourselves more time on the crease, we have our own plans but let's see how it goes.
"Yeah, the team's composition depends on condition. Although we would like to go with the same lineup, but we will take the decision tomorrow after looking at the wicket.
"We are used to this [Lahore's] weather, the heat will not be a problem for us (laughs)," he concluded.
It must be noted that Sri Lanka won their Asia Cup opener against Bangladesh by five wickets and got off to a great start.
A win will secure their place in the tournament's Super Four.
