I will miss the MI dressing room: Jayasuriya

CHENNAI: It’s all but over for Sanath Jayasuriya. After being denied a spot in the World Cup probables list, the Matara mauler went unsold in the IPL auctions in Bangalore which virtually brought the shutters down on his career.

“These things are part and parcel of a cricketers life and I have been experiencing all these for a long time. I am a professional cricketer and am quite capable of handling such situations. Every cricketer wants to play the World Cup and I obviously wanted to play this one too, but now there’s not much I can do about it. I wish my team all the best,” Jayasuriya, who was in city to unveil the jerseys for the Puthiya Thalaimurai Chennai Super-Six cricket tournament, being organised by Ignite Sports, said. Jayasuriya had played five World Cups for Sri Lanka.

The veteran Sri Lankan all-rounder, who had represented Mumbai Indians in the IPL in all three editions, said it would be difficult to stay away from the prestigious league.

“I have spent three years in the MI dressing-room and have a lot of fond memories. They are a fantastic side and Sachin (Tendulkar) is leading the team brilliantly. I am sure they will do well in the IPL and I wish the boys good luck,” the veteran of 110 Tests and 444 ODIs, added.

According to Jayasuriya, one the teams from the subcontinent will be favourites for the World Cup due to their familiarity with the conditions.

“It’s a different ball game altogether in the World Cup as all the teams come well-prepared. India are doing well at the moment and Sri Lanka are always a dangerous side. Pakistan have gone through a rough phase and now have started to do well in New Zealand.