Warne is good but Murli is the best: Ranatunga

Colombo, Nov 23 (UNI) Former Sri Lanka captain, Arjuna Ranatunga believes that Murlitharan's record against India proves he is a much tougher proposition for batsmen and a better bowler than the other spin wizard Shane Warne.

''If you look at the top players who play spin well, especially the Indians, Murali has done pretty well,'' he said. Muralitharan averages 39 runs per wicket in India compared to Warne's 47.

The only World Cup winning captain for Sri Lanka, Ranatunga said that Shane Warne was provided with an armchair ride by pacemen Glen McGrath and Jason Gillespie with the help of which the latter reached his world record of 708 wickets.

''Murali is far more difficult to play than Warne. Warne was a really good bowler but I feel Murali is the best,'' he said.

He also said that an aggressive India would pose a formidable challenge to Australia in their four-test series this summer.

''India looks a better batting and bowling side now with some younger guys coming through, they should play positive and aggressive cricket.'' ''This is another opportunity for India to win against Australia," he said. The last time India toured Australia, it performed really well against the home side and drew the the series 1-1.

Ranatunga also criticised the Sri Lanka administration for their unkind treatment towards a senior player like of Marvan Atapattu and poor preparation for tours here.

UNI