Though Sri Lanka is currently following Pakistan's approach of blame game between selectors and players, to me, the just completed whitewash by Indians is only a blessing in disguise for the Sri Lankans.
One - In the just concluded series, about 80% of the bowlers were fringe bowlers. The team was without Malinga, Herath, Senanayake. It has allowed Mathews to find out who were the other 2 bowlers who could carry the torch and run. Eranga will be the one and possibility of Prasad could be the other bowler.
Two - The last decade has seen the likes of Jayawardane and Sangakarra carrying the burden on their shoulders. In this series, at least one batsmen has proved that he is a main stay for the world cup and that is Thirimanne. In the process, Kushal and Chandimal have ruled themselves out of the WC XI by their shocking performances.
Three - I think SL would now focus on getting Mahela to open the innings with Dilshan taking the No.2 slot. This would mean having Perara or Tharanga to open the innings with Mahela.
Four - The all-rounders - While Mathew has continued his blistering performance, Perara has emerged from a bits-and-pieces cricketer with some decent outings and the role of 2 all rounders are intact.
Finally - World Cup is another 3 months away and this will allow Sri Lanka to peak in at the right time.
Though I will update separately about Sri Lanka chances for the World Cup, yet, I conclude that Sri Lanka is a team to reckon with and not disposed off before the World Cup.
No comments:
Post a Comment