`` We have been pitted against three very strong teams and generally we have been playing well. But here we'll have to perform extremely well if we are to win''. said Sri Lankan skipper Arjuna Ranatunga.
The South Africans look the toughest opponents. The West Indies and Pakistan are also playing well. Taking into account our overall performance we are confident. But it will not be that easy.Winning the first match is important for either side to keep their hopes alive to reach the final''.
Sri Lanka has three rest days after the first game against the West Indies. But there after it will be a hard grind upto the final.'' It is not the number of matches that matters, adequate rest in between is a vital factor. Playing continuously make players prone to injury,'' said Ranatunga.
The West Indians too will be looking to win the first game against Sri Lanka and it could be a block-buster of a match.
Ranatunga further said that the return of former skipper Wasim Akram could have a big impact on the Pakistan side.'' He has been one of the bowling greats of all time and whenever he is in the side it will be a plus mark in bowling or batting''
The Sri Lankan skipper also said that practices were mostly confined indoors due to the persisting rain but the players have been indulging in physical training and are in good shape.
He was glad that the players were able to take a rest after the hectic international season concluded.'' Too many matches played within a short gap makes a player injury prone,'' said Ranatunga.
The Ghadaffi stadium will bring back nostalgic memories to the Sri Lanka cricketers.
That was where the Sri Lankans won the highest prize for cricket, the World Cup in March 1996 with the backing of almost the entire Pakistani crowd. However in this tournament it is certain that the Lankans will not get the wholehearted support,, as the host country naturally will get the fullest backing from their cricket crazy crowds and will have to fight every inch against three top cricket playing nations,Pakistan,South Africa and West Indies.
``It is going to be a tough tournament and it is not the first time we are meeting South Africa after the World Cup. We have beaten them in Kenya and before that we played them here in Sri Lanka and the South Africans are going to be the toughest side to beat. We have met the West Indies on a previous occasion but six of our players did not play and we were not at full strength.This is going to be a tough one and we are looking forward to it,'' said the Sri Lankan Manager Duleep Mendis.
``Until we get there we would not know as to what type of wickets we'll have to play on. Generally in Pakistan wickets are prepared to suit the batsmen.'' said Mendis.
Referring to the few new faces in the Pakistan team Mendis said that he has not seen any of these players in action and further said that it will not be easy for new players when competing with top teams in a tournament of this nature.