Mahela Jayawardene impressed with turnaround

Sri Lankan outgoing skipper, Mahela Jayawardene, has praised the team’s improved performances in the limited-overs arena, and expressed confidence of clinching the ODI series when they meet Australia in the fifth and final game at Hobart.

In a surprising turn of events, the tourists find themselves in a dominating position after winning back to back ODIs at Adelaide and Brisbane respectively.  A wash out in Sydney meant that they will take an unbeatable 2-1 lead into the final match tomorrow, further knowing that a win will seal only their second bilateral series win over the hosts.

That was hardly on the cards after they lost the Test series emphatically, where the margins of defeat were 137 runs, innings and 201 runs, and 5 wickets respectively. Moreover, their bowling attack had been criticised for a lack of bite, with only spinner Rangana Herath proving his mettle.

However, the skipper was pleased with the turnaround, which has been made possible largely due to the bowling efforts of Nuwan Kulsekara and Lasith Malinga, both of whom have made good use of the favourable conditions. The former is the leading wicket-taker in the ODI series so far, having grabbed 10 scalps at an impressive average of 12.90, including career best figures of 5 for 22.

As for Malinga, he has offered his usual support, having already earned greater recognition following his eventful stint with Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League.

"I think the turnaround has been fantastic. The Test series was disappointing and we never played to our potential. In the one-dayers, we had new guys coming to a settled set-up, but the Melbourne game was disappointing. But the guys have shown determination and character over the last few one-dayers. Hopefully we can finish it on a very positive note."

With Jayawardene relinquishing his duties following the conclusion of the series, the skipper feels that in Dinesh Chandimal, Lahiru Thirimanne and Angelo Mathews they have the right personnel to take the team forward.  

"That's something very positive for the team. The youngsters like Chandi, Thiri and Angelo have learnt a lot playing here. That's a great investment for the future."