Wednesday, February 11, 2009

jayawardena steps down as captain

Mahela Jayawardene is stepping down as captain after their tour of Pakistan, the 31-year-old announced today. Jayawardene, Sri Lanka's most successful Test captain, met with national selectors earlier in the day and informed them of his decision to stand down after three years at the helm.

Sri Lanka will play 2 test matches in Pakistan beginning 21st Feb. In the press conference he said "This is is something I have been considering for some time as it has been my long-held belief that my successor should have at least 18 months in the job to imprint his vision on the team for the 2011 World Cup.....after much thought, I have concluded that the right time has now come for fresh leadership to takeover."

The recent ODI series defeat against India (4-1) at home and also his poor run with the bat must have enforced this decision upon him.Kumara Sangakara will be the front runner for the captaincy as he is the vice-captain of the Lankan team. He also said that he will completely support his new successor and hope to play a major role in the team as a batsman for years to come.

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