Sanath has been a terrific performer in both forms, says Sourav

Colombo: Till a week ago, the 10,000 ODI runs’ club just had two members (Sachin Tendulkar, Inzamam-ul Haq). Now, with Sanath Jayasuriya quickly following Sourav Ganguly, it has doubled.

“Others, too, will join... However, for now, the club remains elitist,” remarked Sourav, during a tete-a-tete with The Telegraph.

Applauding Jayasuriya, he added: “Sanath has been a terrific performer in both forms... Of course, it’s in the ODIs that he gave the opener’s slot a new dimension 1995-96 onwards...”

In Sourav’s opinion, the pace at which Jayasuriya scores is his USP.

“That’s why the run-rate remains healthy... Others try to match him, but Sanath does it best... Plus, he helps himself to the maximum whenever width is offered.”

Pointing out Jayasuriya was a “prime target” whenever he captained against Sri Lanka, Sourav said: “Seeing his back early gave relief, for Sanath has a liking for Indian bowling.”

Sourav, who expects Jayasuriya to play till the 2007 World Cup, also lauded about his commitment.

“Even a dislocated shoulder couldn’t deter him in the tri-series opener... And, the way he batted that evening (in Dambulla)... That’s education...”

Asked to pick a Jayasuriya shot which appealed to him most, Sourav chose his “flick off the pads.”