Sri Lanka are set to face India in a three-match ODI series, looking to rebound after a disappointing performance in the preceding three-match T20I series, where they suffered a whitewash. During the T20Is, Sri Lanka’s batting came under a whole lot of criticism with their middle-order batters failing to put up a competitive fight against India. As they head into ODIs, Sri Lanka aim to capitalize on the change in format to regain momentum and restore confidence. 

Addressing the press ahead of the first ODI, Sri Lanka’s interim head coach Sanath Jayasuriya maintained that team has not been able to block pressure which has hundred their momentum. Jayasuriya asserted team started well in the T20Is but failed to keep up with the momentum. 

"If you see, in the last three games, we started well. That's what you're looking for... for the top three-four to bat well, which we did. That is a positive sign. Also in the second game, the rain-affected game though, there also we started well and we could have had some more runs on the board. The third game was very crucial for us, and we bowled well. Apart from the first game, we fielded really well, we fielded well. But still there is no excuse for us to say anything, and for us to win is the ultimate thing. When criticism comes, you have to take it,” Jayasuriya said. 

To add to their misery, Sri Lanka have been hit by injuries to their key bowlers. Just ahead of the first ODIs, Sri Lanka lost Dilshan Madhushanka and Matheesha Pathirana to injuries and Mohamed Shiraz and Eshan Malinga were called in as replacements. 

"It's a bit unfortunate. Even before this series started, two got injured. Just before the T20s had started, three got injured. Unfortunately, as a coach it's the worst thing when my key fast bowlers are getting injured. That’s very unfortunate. We'll have to have the replacements. That's the key. Sri Lanka Cricket's High Performance Centre has the responsibility to make sure that the replacements are available. It's been tough for some of the players who haven't been in the international arena, and haven't played international cricket," he said.