Canadian cricket has been plunged into turmoil just days before the T20 World Cup with the sudden dismissal of head coach Pubudu Dassanayeke.
Pubudu Dassanayeke record: Success and Controversy
Dassanayeke, a former Sri Lankan and Canadian cricketer, was brought back as coach in July 2022. During his tenure, he achieved significant milestones for Canada:
- T20 World Cup Qualification: Dassanayeke guided Canada through the Americas T20 Regional Final, securing their spot in the upcoming World Cup.
- ODI Status Regained: Canada recaptured ODI status at the 2023 World Cup Qualifier Playoff under Dassanayeke’s leadership.
- Promotion and League Domination: Dassanayeke oversaw Canada’s promotion from the CWC Challenge League to CWC League 2, where they currently lead the table.
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Rumors of unrest in Cricket Canada
However, despite these successes, rumors of player discontent with Dassanayeke had been circulating. This was further fueled by the appointment of a new selection panel, excluding the coach, after controversial Cricket Canada board elections.
Controversial selection decisions, including the omission of Nikhil Dutta and Jeremy Gordon, added to the tension.
More on T20 WC:
Unclear Future ahead of T20 World Cup
On May 22nd, Dassanayeke was abruptly informed by Cricket Canada’s new vice president that his services were no longer needed after the ongoing preparatory matches as per Cricbuzz. Reports suggest a player-led letter expressing dissatisfaction may have contributed to his dismissal.
With the T20 World Cup opener against the USA just around the corner (June 1st), Canada is left scrambling. No replacement coach has been named, leaving a cloud of uncertainty over the team’s preparation and performance in the World Cup.
