Aussies approach Lanka match as virtual final

Melbourne, Feb 28 (UNI) Keen to continue their winning spree in the ongoing CB series, Australia will take their inconsequential match against Sri Lanka here tomorrow as a virtual final.

Retiring wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist said every member of the team is looking forward to the game and the match will not be treated as a practice match.

''We've certainly taken the approach that our finals campaign starts now,'' Gilchrist told mediapersons today.

''You could say it would be better not playing the game and have a clear run into the finals and preparation. But we've got this game to use how we want to use it, and it's not as a practice game.

''I'm sure every individual is looking to have their own specific things. I'm sure Ricky [Ponting] will want to back up now, the runs that he's scored, and Symmo. I've had a few teens, twenties scores since my hundred in Perth too,'' he added.

On the other hand, Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene was disappointed at his team's poor run as they managed to win only one game in the series.

''No team wants to lose four-five games in a tournament and not have a successful run,'' Jayawardene said.

''Every game we play, we play to win and give everything.

Things haven't gone our way, we have one more chance to rectify those things,'' he hoped.

However, Gilchrist, who will retire after the ongoing CB series from both forms of the game, said as the finals are approaching, the reality of retirement is playing on his emotions. Although, he said he was satisfied with his decision.

''I'm getting more and more reflective and it's natural to do that. The way people are expressing their emotions and thoughts and opinions of me, and to me, that's making it even more of an emotional time.'' UNI XC RAR AB GC1517