Sri Lanka batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa has clarified his recent remarks about the bats used by Indian players during the T20 World Cup 2026. The left-hander said his comments were intended as praise, but they were taken in a different way.
Speaking to a local news channel earlier, Rajapaksa suggested that the bats used by Indian cricketers seemed better in quality compared to others. The 34-year-old even mentioned that it looked like there was an extra layer of rubber on their bats.
Later, in a post on his official X account, the Colombo-born cricketer explained that his statement may have been misunderstood. He admitted that he could have explained his point more clearly and provided better context.
“Hi all, just a quick clarification about comments from a recent interview that have been interpreted differently and, in parts, lost in translation. My point was meant as praise: Indian cricket is incredibly advanced from its systems and infrastructure to its equipment standards.”
“Their bat manufacturers are truly among the best in the world. In hindsight, I could have provided clearer context. Nothing but respect always.”
Just a quick clarification! pic.twitter.com/rZbrCyk5iQ
— Bhanuka Rajapaksa (@BhanukaRajapak3) February 10, 2026
India’s batters have been in top form in T20Is over the last 18 months, playing at a different tempo and holding the No.1 ranking. However, they had to grind out a win against USA in their T20 World Cup 2026 opener and will aim for a stronger performance against Namibia in Delhi on Thursday.
Rajapaksa last represented Sri Lanka in November 2025
At the same time, the left-handed batter last turned out for Sri Lanka in November 2025 in a T20I series against Zimbabwe. His lack of consistency with the bat resulted in him missing out on selection for Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad.
Out of his 50 international appearances, 45 have been in T20Is. The seasoned player played a key part in Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup 2022 win, smashing an unbeaten 71 against Pakistan in the final in Dubai, which helped the team defend 170 and secure the trophy.
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