Middle order let us down - D.S De Silva

The Sri Lankan manager D.S De Silva spoke to the media after the game about his sides performance.

"We were really confident about winning this tournament. The boys have played really well throughout the tournament except against India on two occasions. This morning we were fully confident and the boys were fully focussed on the job that they were going to do. But unfortunately we didn't get enough runs. It was a very good wicket to bat on and we got 178. On a fast outfield and a good wicket that just wasn't good enough. Once again our middle order batsmen let us down".

He further stated "the other crucial reason for losing was the running between the wickets four guys got run out again, including one of the top order batsmen. That is why we didn't make runs. I thought the Indian players bowled really tight and their fielding was superb. All in all they played really good cricket today".

When asked as to what was the difference between the two sides.

"They bowled a better line than our bowlers. In the field they didn't fumble the ball and the throwing was very good. In the batting they did the right thing and that is why they won the game. In all three departments they were better than we were" said the Lankan manager.

The manager was though upbeat about the future. "Although it is disappointing to have lost the final, I think the performance of the lads in this tournament is good news for the future of Sri Lanka's cricket. In the batting department Ian Daniels and Jehan Mubarak, who scored 58 today, have been impressive throughout the tournament. Rashan Peirs has keep wicket exceptionally and Dhammika has bowled very well".