Sri Lanka, Feb. 26 -- Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka has blamed "external negativity," injury setbacks, and spin-friendly pitches for the team's early T20 World Cup exit, calling on the government to protect players' mental health.

After a 61-run loss at Khettarama-their third straight defeat following Zimbabwe, England, and New Zealand-Shanaka said: "There is too much negativity around the team. No matter how we try to stay positive, the outside noise affects us. That's a big loss for Sri Lankan cricket."

Highlighting injuries to Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, and Eshan Malinga, Shanaka added, "When you have this number of injuries, it's hard to get results. Fitness must be non-negotiable."

He also urged authorities to step ...