Couple of changes needed for third Test - Mahela

Chris DHAMBARAGE reporting from Galle

Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardena blamed his top order batsmen after his team crashed to a humiliating 170 run defeat in the second test match against the touring Indian team which ended on the fourth day at the Galle International Stadium yesterday.

Jayawardena stressed the importance of making a good start in any form of game while chasing a target and the Lankans faltered badly by losing three of their top order batsmen within the first four overs of the innings.

Jayawardena also noted that the absence of a quality fast bowler under these conditions is a major concern which they need to sort out before the crucial third test match which gets underway on Friday at the P. Saravanamuttu Stadium in Colmbo.

The Sri Lankan captain said that opening bowler Ishant Sharma exploited the conditions well and his three wicket burst in the second innings really turned the game in India’s favour although Thilan Samaraweera battled it out bravely for some time.

Jayawardena also predicted there will be a couple of changes for the third test with some options available with them in the squad. He said that the bowlers performed well creating several opportunities and commended the splendid performance of Ajantha Mendis who finished with a ten wicket haul in his second test match.

The Sri Lankan captain also said their first innings failure with the bat was also crucial because the Indians managed to snatch a good lead that turned out be crucial at the end. Jayawardena said that this was a disappointing test but not a bad one because they have another opportunity to comeback and win the series.