Dinesh Chandimal ecstatic about Sri Lanka's victory against Pakistan

Sri Lanka had been stuck in the dreary pit of defeat for quite some time in the recent past. The 2-0 Test series victory over Pakistan has come as a welcome change for the Dinesh Chandimal-led side. Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 68 runs in the second Test played in the UAE, to clinch the series.

With defeat following them everywhere, the Sri Lankan team had become a constant recipient flak from fans and critics alike. Notable, the abysmal 9-0 whitewash against India saw the Lankans as a confused side, incoherent in their techniques. However, the series win away from home is bound to act as a morale booster for the young team.

Chandimal happy with his team’s efforts

Speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, an elated Chandimal said, “We are over the moon. This is a team performance. They put their heart and soul in the practice sessions. Thanks to the selectors again for giving us confidence.” The win must taste even sweeter as it marks the first time that Pakistan have lost a series in the UAE since they started playing their home matches there in 2010.

The Lankan skipper further related how the India tour has served as a learning curve for the team and said, “It was a tough series against India but we learnt a lot from it. The boys executed the game plan really well in this series. If you look at the guys, they’re really committed. Their attitude and discipline is there and that brings the spirit too.”

Giving credit to Dilruwan Perera and Rangana Herath for having made crucial contributions to the winning cause, Chandimal said, “Last night it was a little difficult to bowl, especially with the dew. We knew when we come today, it will grip more. We knew Dilruwan and Rangana would do the job.”

As a result of this series defeat, Sri Lanka are now above Pakistan in the ICC Test Rankings as the latter have slipped to the seventh position, after having gained the numero uno position only a few months back.