India look to hit back in final

It was a similar story for India and Sri Lanka before the hosts proved how formidable they are in these conditions on Tuesday. In more ways than one, the Asia Cup is the channel in build up to the World Cup and the hosts are proving to be better in tactics and execution.

Yet, the form book is no guarantee. In the last 12 months India and Sri Lanka have met 13 times, with both sides winning six each and the Kotla pitch proving spoilsport on the other. The last two cup finals have also been shared.

India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni was not ready to dwell too much on the defeat in the last league game. “This result will not hamper our chances in the final. It will be a fresh start. This match gave us a chance to test our bench strength and I am happy with their performance,” said Dhoni.

Once that was decided, Dhoni should have also blooded R. Ashwin and Saurabh Tiwary. The off-spinner has got one game in four series while Tiwary would have done better playing for India ‘A’ in England rather than cool his heels here.

Kumar Sangakkara did his side a huge favour by chasing under lights. Mentally the Lankan seem to be in better shape.

“To bat second was planned in advance. The replacements did extremely well. It’s a cup final and we are going to hit the ground running,” said Sangakkara.

The hosts for the final will probably fall back on the tried and trusted duo of Lasith Malinga and Muttiah Muralitharan.

The wicket here has played true. Assistance to seamers has added to the quality of cricket. The bat has not dominated wholly and that is reason enough for both camps to believe that the toss is not going to be all important.

The Indian middle order has not been consistent. Suresh Raina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma not clicking as a unit is adding to the pressure.

The SL camp was, however, guarded against complacency. “I am sure the boys will understand that we are not going to have a hat-trick and two crucial run-outs going our way in every game. India are a strong side and we have to be on top of our game to get the better of them.

“In the last Asia Cup final Sanath Jayasuriya and Ajanta Mendis came up with special performances, other players will have to put their hands up this time,” noted Sangakkara.

India’s bowling combination might require a re-think. Ashish Nehra has not been on top of his fitness. However, Dhoni confirmed that Nehra was fully fit and available for selection. Ashok Dinda proved easy fodder and if Nehra is unable to make the cut, the team will be a medium pacer short.

Mahi’s men go fishing!

After the team management had decided to give the players a day off (optional practice), Dhoni and Co. went fishing on the lake that surrounds the team hotel. Some members also utilised the free time to shop in the outskirts of the town near Kandy for artefacts. The reserve players attended practice.

India-Sri Lanka stats

* The day/night final will be the 15th between the two teams in ODI’s. Sri Lanka have won seven and India six in 14 previous finals played between the two teamsm while one match was abandoned due to rain.
* The Islanders have won three and lost two in five final matches played against India in Asia Cup.
* India Blue have won just two finals in last 12 limited overs tournaments.
* Head-to-head in ODI’s India leads Sri Lanka with 65 wins, 48 losses with remaining 11 matches ending without a result