(Former member of 1983 World Cup winning team)

It was a wonderful night that raised hopes of an intense contest between two veterans. The stage was ideal and quite an apt one for Sanath Jayasuriya and Brian Lara to play the decisive role for their respective teams.

Jayasuriya won the battle hands down.

That Sri Lanka won comprehensively was in keeping with their reputation. A team who have learnt to improve with every match and pay attention to minute details when drawing their tactical plans deserve to be feted. Sri Lanka once again demonstrated what difference can good planning make and I was not at all surprised by the team's domination over the West Indies.

Sri Lanka, on form, looks certain to win a semifinal berth. It has a fine combination where each player knows his role and the most impressive factor is the desire among the seniors to play their part to perfection.

What does one say of Jayasuriya? His hunger for runs is mind-blowing and I can't think of a player more committed to his team than this exciting left-hander. He draws his strength from his experience and his ability to play the motivational role in the team makes him the most valuable asset to have in times when consistency is at a premium.

What I like most about Jayasuriya most is his ability to score when it counts. It was a tight situation for Sri Lanka. It had to win to boost its points tally and chances to play the semifinals.

That he clicked at the right moment was expected of Jayasuriya and he only confirmed that he was a truly great player.

How many players can win matches with individual brilliance? There are not many in this list but Jayasuriya is a priceless member with amazing consistency. I know he loves to play positive cricket but the ease with which he dominates the attack puts him in a different league altogether.

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