Sri Lanka skipper hails ‘brilliant’ centurions

Angelo Mathews praises Dilshan, Sangakkara for match-defining innings.

MELBOURNE: Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews hailed century-makers Tillakaratne Dilshan and Kumar Sangakkara as “brilliant” after they lifted the 1996 champions to a 92-run win over Bangladesh.

Dilshan smashed an unbeaten 161 off 146 balls — the ninth highest score in World Cup history — while Sangakkara marked his 400th ODI with a 105 not out.

“Dilshan and Sangakkara were brilliant, they took us through, took calculated risks and it was a great effort by all three batters,” said Mathews, also reserving praise for opener Lahiru Thirimanne for his 52. “We were slightly sloppy in the field and could have done better, but once you’ve got 300 on the board, your bowlers can take chances. We’re ready for the England game.”

Meanwhile, Bangladesh skipper Mashrafe Mortaza also praised the Sri Lankan duo but felt his bowlers had let the team down. “Our bowlers weren’t up to the mark and hopefully in the next match we will improve,” said Mortaza. “Dilshan and Sangakkara played well and showed their character today. I hope our next game will be our best in the tournament.”

Happy to bounce back, says Dilshan

Dilshan said he was relieved to be back amongst the runs after being dismissed off the first ball against Afghanistan last time out. “I am really happy with today’s innings after getting out first ball in the last game,” said Dilshan, named man of the match.

The 38-year-old, who made his ODI debut back in 1999, added that he does not feel the effects of age once he is out on the cricket field. “I am enjoying my cricket and when I cross the line I don’t think about my age,” he said. “I dropped a catch and it is all a part of the game. But I am happy with our performance and we are getting back to a rhythm. This was a good game for us before we move on to the bigger games.” 

Published in The Express Tribune, February 27^th,  2015.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.