Jayawardena looking towards 'youngsters' in Bangla series

Colombo, June 19 (UNI) Saddened by the unavailability of veteran batsman Marvan Atapattu for the upcoming Bangladesh series, Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardena has called up the young blood of the team 'to stand up and deliver'.

The 27-year-old Lankan skipper, while addressing a news conference, said the loss of Marvan Atapattu was a disappointment but added that it was a blessing in disguise as the occasion would also provide an opportunity to an youngster to prove his mettle.

''It's disappointing but we should know the responsibilities and it is a chance for a new player to prove himself and fill the void (left by Atapattu),'' Jayawardena told the Sri Lankan newspaper 'Dailly Mirror'.

He also said he was looking at a long-term plan to guide the players in a proper manner as his side have a packed schedule in the coming few months.

''I will not hesitate to experiment with some of the new players during the Bangladesh series in consultation with the national selectors.'' The prolific run-getter attributed his success as a captain to his team-mates' hardwork, saying each player has been able to improve his skills and that has helped him to overcome every challenge on the field.

Sri Lanka's current assignment is the upcoming home series against Bangladesh, followed by the inaugural Twenty-20 World Cup in South Africa, after which they take on England in another home series. The Lions will sum up their calender year with an away series against Australia, where they play two Test matches -- first in Brisbane and then Hobart.

UNI