We’ve come back strong: Jayawardene
First Published : 21 Feb 2012, 17:33
Last Modified : 21 Feb 2012, 22:24
Brisbane, Feb 21: The Sri Lanka resurgence in the CB Series continued as they beat India by 51 runs at The Gabba, Brisbane. The Lankans’ total of 289 proved too much for the underperforming Indian batting line-up who were bowled out for just 238. Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene was happy with his team’s performance but underlined the need to cut down on unnecessary errors.
Excerpts from Mahela Jayawardene’s post-match TV interview:
On Sri Lanka’s improving form
We are getting better and better, I think the commitment is brilliant. We played smart cricket today, kept wickets in hand and got a very good score; but we’re still making mistakes. We need to make sure we don’t make such mistakes again.
On Sri Lanka’s batting performance
I think we tried different game plans and with the Indians, this was our game plan. I think we did perfectly today. Getting 280-290 today with two new balls – everyone should get credit for that. Even our bowlers were absolutely brilliant upfront.
On keeping the pressure on the opposition
With the two new balls, the ball is doing a bit more in these conditions. We allow the batsmen to take risks and if they get off to a great start, then we can always have a fallback plan. Not giving singles with the two new balls is very important.
On the tough competition between the teams
In tough conditions we are playing against two good teams; we didn’t start that well but we are coming back strong. Hopefully we can keep our heads together and try and finish these next few games in a very convincing manner.
Excerpts from Nuwan Kulasekara’s post-match TV interview:
On bowling with the new ball
My strength is to swing the ball. I like to make the most of every opportunity, [whatever the] conditions.
On getting the wicket of Sachin Tendulkar
He is the master of cricket and I am very happy to have taken his wicket.
On Sri Lanka’s bowling attack
I think our bowling attack is very good. Lasith [Malinga] and the other seamers and spinners did a great job.
On Lasith Malinga
He is the world’s No.1 bowler, according to me. I am very lucky [to be bowling alongside him].
