No cricket for Lankans

Elmo RODRIGOPULLE in Australia, Friday

The Sri Lanka cricketers under newly reappointed captain Mahela Jayawardena who are determined to forget their recent losses and impress in the Commonwealth Bank series here were disappointed when their game against the Prime Minister’s X1 in Canberra was called off due to rain yesterday.

Speaking to the media in Canberra, captain Jayawardena made it known that they are out to do well and get the recent losses out of their system. He said that if the recent losses are analysed it shows that they lost 2-1, 3-2 or 4-2. He is determined to improve on that and get into winning ways. However Jayawardena was not going to play against the Prime Minister’s X1, according to Sri Lankan manager and media spokesman Charith Senanayake.

‘Jayawardena is being rested because there are more important engagements ahead’, said former Sri Lankan dashing left handed opening batsman Senanayake.

In a tele conversation, selector on tour and Chairman Selection Committee Asantha de Mel said that the team is training hard. When asked he said the players are fit and well with the usual early niggles, but with no cause for alarm.

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, who is a keen cricket fan expressed her disappointment at the Prime Minister’s X1 luncheon for being unable to watch the action.

Former stylish left hander and who was a star attraction in Sir Donald Bradman’s 1948 invincibles was present at the luncheon.