 India's young guns ready to fire against Lanka
17th Aug 2008 23:05 IST
Agencies
A wounded India would bank on its young blood to make amends for their humiliating loss in the Test series against Sri Lanka as it takes on the hosts in the first of their five One-dayers on Monday.
The Indian side has got a shot of new vigour and energy as skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni returns to lead the men in blue with an onus to crack the code of mystery spinner Ajantha Mendis, who is fast gaining the reputation as their nemesis.
The Indian ODI side would also be infused with the freshness of Yuvraj Singh, who hit an explosive 172 against the LankanXI in a practice match and gave indication that he was in the best of his forms.
The Punjab-batsman, however, said Mendis and Muttiah Muralitharan, who made India bite dust in the Tests, would make a deadly combo.
"Obviously, I have to face a better attack when I play the ODI. But my innings was against an international side. With Mendis and Muralitharan, Sri lanka will have a potent attack," said Yuvraj.
After a dismal showing by the batsmen in the Test series, the visitors will also have to pay special attention to building up partnerships during the ODIs as it would be the key in posting big scores.
However, the victory in the practice match against a moderate Lankan XI bowling attack, after scoring heavily in a slow and low wicket, would have done a world of good to the demoralised visitors.
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