India will look to start the new season on a winning note when they clash with on-form Sri Lanka in a one-day series starting in Hambantota on Saturday. “It’s the start of a new season for us. It’s nice to start afresh on a positive note,” Dhoni, the Indian captain, told reporters ahead of the five-match series.
“There are certain areas we want to improve on, and it’s a good time for us to test how much we have improved and how much more we can improve.” Dhoni’s men, who enjoyed a rare six-week break after the IPL, have a busy season ahead, hosting New Zealand, England, Pakistan and Australia. “I think it was a very good break and we wanted to make the most of it,” said Dhoni.
India will look for runs from their top order, which is without leading run-getter Sachin Tendulkar, who opted out of the tour to spend time with his family. Sri Lanka are determined to build on their recent success which saw them win both the Test and one-day home series against Pakistan under Mahela Jayawardene.
“We have just finished a series against Pakistan successfully and it is important to continue with the good work,” the Sri Lankan captain said.
“We have to work hard to reach the goals we want to attain. It's a good opportunity against India and we need to take the team forward.”
Whitewash will see India back on top
New Delhi: India go into the five-match series in Sri Lanka with a chance to leap from their current fourth place to number one in the ICC One-day International team rankings. India last held the number one position briefly in September 2009 but if they achieve a clean sweep against their hosts now, Dhoni’s side will unseat current table-toppers Australia.
AFP
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