England’s fortunes in the ODIs have seen a sharp turnaround since their unceremonious exit from the 2015 World Cup. However, it’s not only their performance on the ground which has won hearts but also off it. The latest recognition of the Englishmen’s humble behaviour has come from none other than Charith Senanayake, the team manager of Sri Lanka, the country they are touring at the moment.
England, currently ranked No.1 in the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) ODI table, have won 14 of their last 18 bilateral ODI series and are looking favourites to lift their maiden World Cup title at home in May-July next year. They have already won the five-match ODI series against the Asians with a match to go.
English cricketers’ decency impresses all“Absolutely amazing to see them big lads…..calling even the most Jr hotel staff member Sir…..,” Senanayake was quoted by Kashmir Times as saying over the telephone from Kandy.
“The English boys may look good with their performances on field. Perhaps their off field conduct, even better. It is just my general observation. What I have observed the last 2 weeks. How polite, well mannered and gentlemanly way the English cricketers and their support staff go about. They are easy going, no hang ups, no arrogance. A happy bunch of solid lads. It is a good laugh and pleasure to be around them. Absolute gentleman and ambassador for England. England should be proud of them,” the Lankan team official said.
Senanayake also called the England players “perfect ambassadors” for their country. “Respect and salute them,” he was further said.
England took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-game series after winning the rain-hit fourth ODI by 18 runs in the Duckworth-Lewis method. All the three games that the visitors won have been hit by rain while the first one was washed away in the downpour. Led by Eoin Morgan, England won the second ODI by 31 runs and third ODI by 7 wickets.
England recently defeated India 2-1 in the ODI series and 4-1 in the Test series before leaving for the Sri Lankan tour.
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