CHENNAI: Arjuna Ranatunga might have sparked off a controversy with his India ‘B-team’ comment earlier this week, but his former Sri Lanka teammate Aravinda de Silva feels their side shouldn’t take India lightly.
“There is no way we can call this a second-string Indian side. India have enormous talent and this side is as good as any. In fact, it will be a challenge for us to beat this Indian team," De Silva, who is also Sri Lanka Cricket’s cricket committee chairman, said during a media session ahead of the limited-overs series to be broadcast on Sony Sports from July 13.
"We can take enormous amount of confidence going into the T20 World Cup (later this year) if we can beat India.”
India are fielding two sides simultaneously – the Test squad will face England next month while the limited-overs side captained by Shikhar Dhawan will take on Lanka.
De Silva said this ploy could be the future due to the pandemic.
“Bubble-life is very challenging for the players. It takes a toll mentally. So it is not only India but other countries too are rotating players to give them time to spend with their families. I believe fielding two teams could be the future of international cricket,” the former Sri Lanka captain said.
De Silva said Dravid’s disciplined approach to the game will rub off on the players.
“Dravid has instilled the knowledge and strategy in them. Similarly, we have been trying to convince Mahela Jayawardene to take up the role of SL U-19 coach but couldn’t find any success,” he said.
