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Bayliss pleased with Lankan spirit
DHNS
Last Updated IST
Close shave Tillakaratne Dilshans ton went in vain. Reuters
Close shave Tillakaratne Dilshans ton went in vain. Reuters

We showed a lot of character, but yes, they are disappointed that they lost the match after coming so close to a memorable victory,” Bayliss said.

Bayliss said the Lankans were not under pressure while chasing such huge total. “We were not thinking about 415, as it can only create more pressure. We want to enjoy the game, and gave our best. We wanted to rotate the strike and keep our team in play.

“The wicket was flat and the boundaries were relatively small. But yes we could have managed the chase better especially after getting into such a good position. We faltered a bit in the final moments of the chase. Neverthless a great effort.” The Australian praised Sehwag for his hundred. “He is an amazing batsman isn’t it? You cannot do much when Sehwag is in flow and he is in brilliant form as well, and in such stages whatever you do it will come right. Dilshan too played a fine innings, and I think he matched Sehwag in stroke-making. Sangakkara too was awesome, and it is unfortunate that we could not complete the job,” he said.

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(Published 15 December 2009, 23:42 IST)