Youngsters have established themselves

Elmo RODRIGOPULLE from New Zealand

CRICKET: The Sri Lankans will make use of this New Zealand tour to fine tune their strong challenge to win the World Cup in the Caribbean early next year.

The Lankans play two test matches and five-one day internationals on this seven-week visit to Kiwiland in addition to two 20 Twenty games and a hit about four-day practice game against Otago.

Facing the New Zealand media a few hours after their arrival, coach Tom Moody revealed that the Lankans would use this tour to build momentum and confidence and be ready to face the challenges in the West Indies.

Sri Lanka who will be playing somewhat similar conditions during the World Cup, are one of the favourites to win the richest prize that is on offer in the 'cowboy game.

Sri Lanka were also one of the favourites for the ICC Champions trophy. But surprisingly the wheels came off in the first round game against South Africa and the Lankans came a cropper.

Moody who took most of the questions said that the Lankans have a fine blend of players and said that some of the players have been here before and are aware of the conditions.

Describing his charges as a blend of youth and experience he said that a few young players who have earned selection have established themselves.

He admitted that the Kiwis would pose a tough challenge, but after the Test triumphs against South Africa at home, he would like to continue that run against Stephen Fleming's black caps.

Moody said that he was aware that the New Zealanders are a tough side and that playing two Test and Five One-day Internationals would be excellent practice to get the players in the mood for the World Cup.

The coach said that it was bit of a disappointment, because the rainy weather in Sri Lanka had delayed the start the domestic season, but admitted that the team has had a lot of practice.

Moody also said that the team has had enough rest and they had been working on a few individual and specific things and his first hurdle would be to get over the first two tests and then move on to the one-day affairs.

Here in New Zealand the wickets have more bounce and seam than the wickets at home and with the Kiwis packing a fine team of seam bowlers, the Lankan batsmen would be up against it.

If the front line batsmen follow the ball up to the bat and get in line quickly, then they could get among the runs and not let the seamers dominate. It would be interesting to watch how the Lankans would go.

DUNEDIN, New Zealand, Tuesday