(Member of 1983 World Cup winning team)

Self belief has been a strong component of the Islander's improved performance in this World Cup. They have been quietly efficient and have grown in strength as the tournament has progressed.

The Sri Lankans have invested in experience with some rich returns. I have always wondered how could experience be substituted by youth. True there is room for talent but then I have always believed that grooming of a cricketer is the most important aspect as the administrators shape the ambitions of youngsters.

But not by ignoring the contributions of the experienced.

In Sri Lanka, care has been taken to give experience the respect it deserves and I am fascinated by players like Sanath Jayasuriya and Chaminda Vaas performing with consistency. They don't just perform regularly but deliver when the team looks up to them. It is not easy by any yardstick.

To play as a team is the best way to put yourself on the winning track and here Sri Lanka is way ahead of the rest because they back each other so well. Of course, Australia is a supreme example of teamwork and consistency but then Australia is a team that belongs to another league altogether.

Sri Lanka should rank closest to Australia in terms of playing to one's potential and the strength comes from within. The players were quick to settle into their roles when they arrived for the World Cup and it was pleasing indeed to watch the seniors back themselves by performing.

Players like Jayasuriya and Vaas can be tremendous assets. They have never been a burden for their captain and what stands out in their case is their desire to justify their places.

The need to perform becomes greater when Sri Lanka plays stronger oppositions and the clinical style that marked the team's big victory over New Zealand was evidence of their confidence and form.

New Zealand lost its way early when Stephen Fleming fell to Vaas in the opening over. This was a grand start, for Fleming has the capacity of not only scoring runs for himself and but also guiding his partners to give their best. This was a wicket that meant so much for Sri Lanka and it reflected in their overall performance.

Scott Styris was exceptionally dedicated in hitting a century but Sri Lanka had the game under its control.

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