Jayasuriya steps into Murali's 'large shoes'

London, June 22 (UNI) There are not too many assignments that can put explosive Sri Lankan batsman Sanath Jayasuriya under pressure, but when it comes to replacing Muttiah Muralitharan at Lancashire, he admits the master-spinner is a hard act to follow.

''To replace him is not easy, because he's a classy player.

He's got over 500 wickets, but I've got an opportunity to play ] Twenty20 and one championship game, '' said Jayasuriya who is being signed on a short-term contract by Lancanshire in place of his countrymate Muralitharan who is back on the national duty against Bangladesh.

The 37-year-old left-hander is set to take part in eight Twenty20 Cup matches for Lancashire, starting with Durham Dynamos at Old Trafford today.

''I'll do my best to replace Murali but it won't be easy.

Murali is a genius and the way he bowls is difficult for any player.'' However, he seemed confident of performing according to his stature.

''I always enjoy my cricket and there is no reason to feel pressure. I've played a lot of cricket so I enjoy myself and I'll just play my natural game,'' he said.

Meanwhile, Jayasuriya, the current world record holder for the fastest international Twenty20 half-century (51 off 23 balls), was quick to admit his liking for the nascent form of the game.

''This form of cricket is very interesting. I've played quite a few games and I've really enjoyed it.

''It suits me because the way I've played in the 50-over games or Twenty20 games shows that. It's the way I play,'' he said.

''I just want to enjoy my cricket and to get Lancashire into a good position by the time it's time for me to leave. That's the best thing I can achieve,'' he added.

UNI