 Bond to target Jayasuriya early on
23rd Apr 2007 23:30 IST
Agencies
"There would be an attempt to keep the pitch flat, but I suspect the humidity would allow the ball to swing. We somehow back ourselves to do better in such conditions," Bond said.
Bond expects Sri Lankan bowlers, especially Chaminda Vaas, to make things difficult for his side as well.
"Vaas has been a class act and he has got the better of Stephen (Fleming) on occasions. The conditions here would suit him as well.
"Generally I sense this match would go a long way towards the team which is able to pick 3-4 early wickets. Such has generally been the trend in matches involving Sri Lanka and us," he said.
Bond generally means trouble for the opposition top-order and everyone, including Australia, gives him respect.
"When I bowl to them (Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist), I generally try to have a clear plan in mind and persist with it. They try to put pressure on you and if you back off they tend to be all over you. I sense if I keep sticking to my plan, I tend to create opportunity," he said.
Bond dismisses the notion of Australian captain Ricky Ponting that the Black Caps would be intimidated and under pressure after being beaten by the highest margin ever in a Grenada match-up last week.
"This is typical Australian way. They tend to speak about themselves and talk up the opponents. They are certainly beatable. If you can take early wickets, they too can get under pressure. |
