Australia’s aggressive opener David Warner has thanked Sri Lanka for hosting the team in “very difficult times”, saying he will never forget the tour. Sri Lanka is currently in the grip of unprecedented economic and political turmoil. The country is facing acute shortage of fuel and other essential commodities.
Despite this, fans flocked to the stadium in large numbers for the month-long series against Australia. The left-handed batsman posted an emotional message for the people and fans of Sri Lanka on Instagram. Warner wrote, “Thank you Sri Lanka for hosting us in difficult times. We are so grateful to be here and to have the opportunity to play the sport we love. We know you all love supporting the game.”
The 35-year-old said, “You welcomed us with a warm heart and we will never forget this tour. What I love about this country is that you always have a smile on your face, whatever the circumstances, and you are warmly welcomed. Thank you, I look forward to coming here with family for the holidays.”
Australia lost the ODI series 2–3 on this tour after winning the T20I series 2–1. The Test series between the two teams was tied at 1-1. Sri Lanka, a country of 22 million people, is in the grip of unprecedented economic turmoil. The situation in the country has never been so bad in seven decades.
Millions of people are struggling to buy food, medicine, fuel and other essentials. People have come out on the streets and are demanding the resignation of country leaders for economic mismanagement. Bread and other bakery items have become expensive in the country. Wheat flour was earlier available in the market for Rs 84.50 and now its price has increased to more than Rs 300.