Dambulla, Aug. 27: Kumar Sangakkara has reasons to be optimistic ahead of the final. A set of hard working professionals had their priorities right before a single no-ball ruined it all. Except for the unnecessary situation, the hosts have been exemplary on and off the field. Excerpts:
On plans for Sehwag: A lot has been tried against Sehwag by many teams. He’s an excellent player. If we can get him early, it will be an advantage. Sticking to basics is the best option.
On the conditions for the final: For any side it’s about performing under the given conditions. If it’s tough we still have to do well. You cannot expect favourable conditions every time you get out on the field. Good sides try and win those challenges.
On India doing better in finals: I think the main reason is that they have lifted themselves and outplayed us on many occasions. There have been questions asked about the toss, whether there will be any advantage, I don’t think those count. You have to give credit to a side that wins consistently. We need to make sure that we lift ourselves tomorrow for the moment. We have to be mentally tougher.
On India and Sri Lanka playing too much against each other: It’s the same everywhere in the world. There’s a lot of cricket at the moment, it’s been a matter of debate whether there has been too much. As players we want to play cricket. We are here to do that. India-Sri Lanka has had a great rivalry for a long time and it’s getting better.
On the series filled with controversies: There was one incident with the no-ball. I
think the players have got on with their jobs pretty well. You know cricket depends on the entertainment value. Sometimes the interest is heightened, unfortunately by other incidents.
On whether the six day break disturbed intensity: It’s a question we have to answer tomorrow on the field. I think when you are going well it’s nice to keep playing. Before the tournament, we knew the schedule and there can be no complaints. If we can’t get over a six-day break, I don’t think we have anyone to blame other than ourselves.