Namal Rajapaksa has called for a comprehensive restructuring of Sri Lanka Cricket, warning that temporary fixes and short-term solutions will not be sufficient to reverse the national team’s decline.

In a post published on his ‘X’ account following Sri Lanka’s elimination from another ICC T20 World Cup tournament, Rajapaksa stressed that bold decisions are required to rebuild standards and reform the entire system.

He noted that Sri Lanka continues to produce talented young cricketers through its strong school cricket structure and domestic competitions, maintaining that the country still possesses the capacity to develop players capable of competing at the highest international level.

However, Rajapaksa pointed out that while the foundation of the sport remains intact, the principal shortcoming lies in the erosion of long-term planning and systematic management of talent.

He stated that sustained success at the highest level depends on continuous training, accountability and a clear strategic vision, adding that the administrative authorities must ensure stability and professionalism within the sport.

Creating an environment where players can perform freely and establishing leadership stability are also essential components of the rebuilding process, he said.

Rajapaksa further observed that cricket in Sri Lanka is more than a sport, describing it as a national identity closely intertwined with public sentiment. He emphasised that players wearing the national jersey carry the responsibility of upholding its value and pride on the global stage.

He added that the country’s children deserve heroes they can be proud of, and said the current struggle should not be limited to winning trophies, but to restoring the pride associated with the lion emblem that symbolises Sri Lanka.