Match against India to provide ideal preparation for final: Baylis

Karachi, Jul 2 (UNI) As the Asia Cup nears its finale and Sri Lanka having already qualified for the title clash on July 6, coach Trevor Bayliss has made it clear that his side would prefer to go in to the final with an all-win record and tomorrow's game against India would be an ideal preparation for his wards.

''It is good we have a chance to play them before the final it gives the opportunity to carry on our good form in the tournament and extract more from the players,'' Bayliss said.

Sri Lanka convincingly defeated Pakistan to book a place in the final but the hosts will have to beat arch rivals India in a do-or-die encounter to stay afloat in the competition.

The Australian further added that so far he was satisfied with Sri Lanka's performance in the tournament especially the batsmen who have managed to score more than 300 runs on three occasions.

''The batting has been our weak link in the last few months.

But in the Asia Cup despite hiccups it has fired and made totals that have given good support to our bowlers on these very good batting tracks,'' he said.

Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawerdene said though he was still not sure that who will play the final, the game against India would give a good preparation for the summit clash.

''Look at this stage I don't know who we will play in the final but tomorrow definitely it is going to be a tough game for us and we need to carry on our form and momentum in the competition for the final,'' Jayawardane said.

Jayawardene showered praise on youngster Ajantha Mendis who has picked up 11 wickets in the tournament.

''Mendis is a youngster with a sensible head on his shoulders and that is helping him learn quickly and perform well. He has struck gold in the event and what more can we ask off him,'' he said.

Left-handed opener Sanath Jayasuriya did not feel well after he had a short net session today and returned to his team hotel.

But the team coach felt that it was hardly an issue and said Jayasurya will be fine to play against India tomorrow.

UNI XC RAR CS UCS1717