[JASON]

Originally Posted by shehanwije

I sense a level of cockiness amongst our Australian members in this forum.

Whilst the Aussies have played very good cricket so far, its probably not a smart move to get ahead of oneself and make statements like "only way SL can win is if Aus play below their best". This situation reminds me of the lead up to the '96 finals where the cocky Aussies had virtually won the final, after the "come from behind win" against the Windies. When the blowtorch was applied in the "Sri Lankan strangle" mid-innings, Aus fell apart in an embarrasing manner.

This Lankan team can beat the Aussies, even if they are at their best. Judging by Pontings and Mcgraths remarks overnight, it sure looks like the threat that these Lankans possess, particular in big match situations, is well recognised.

The tactic to hold back the 3 bowlers in the meaningless S8 game is now looking to be threatening (refer Pontings comments) to the Aussies as they face an unknown, potent SL bowling unit. On the other hand, the SL bats have all had a good look at the Aussies bowling and can take a few lessons from it.

There is also another myth that if Sanath fails, then SL will lose. This is quite amusing. I say, take a look at the scorecard in the semi. The rest of the Lankan batting is strong enough to post a competitive score that will stretch Aus. Fighting back from a poor position is a hall mark of this SL batting team.

The final myth that Ponting is trying to exploit in his usual pre-match mind games (Yawn!) is that the Lankans cannot play the bouncing ball. Mmmm, this may have been true a few years back, but this this team has a bunch of experienced and skilled batters who can play the horizontal shots with ease, and also prefer the ball coming on. On the other hand, in Vaas and Malinga, SL probably have the best opening attack in the World Cup. So bring on the boucing pitch I say. Even Murali prefers pace and bounce as he can spin the ball on any pitch.

It should be a cracking match. I am obviously biased, but this SL team have the skill and temperament to beat the Aus team at its best...and this is the mindset the Lankans boys are taking into the big match.

Well said.