Tri-series or bi-series -- we are here to settle old scores: Yuvra

Colombo, Aug 17 (UNI) South Africa's withdrawal may have reduced it to a three-match bi-series but Yuvraj Singh asserted his side is here to settle an old score and a change in the format would have no impact on that.

Talking to mediapersons after today's practice session at the R Premadasa Stadium here. The dashing southpaw said, ''Last time when we toured Lanka, we made some mistakes, we lost wickets and conceded runs at crucial moments. But we are certainly not going to repeat that this time.'' India was beaten by Sri Lanka in the Indian Oil Cup final last year.

''The team is aware that we could not do it last time. We had good practice and we are looking forward to the first game tomorrow,'' he added.

Despite missing regular captain Marvan Atapattu, the hosts have been doing excellent under Mahela Jayawardene and Yuvraj knows it won't be a stroll in the park for the Men in Blue to tame the hosts.

''It's always difficult to beat Sri Lanka at their home and this time they have done well abroad as well. They have a couple of superb players in (Chaminda) Vaas and (Muttiah) Muralitharan. But we are ready for the showdown,'' he added.

Yuvraj also confirmed that Mohammad Kaif, who was down with slight fever, had recovered well and would be in the reckoning when the final XI is picked tomorrow.

''Kaif practiced today and seemed completely fit. He would be fine for the match,'' Yuvraj informed.

On his personal form, the Punjab bat oozed confidence of hitting the purple patch again.

''I had four-five bad matches in the West Indies but I have batted well in the practice matches and that gives you loads of confidence. I have been in good nick last year and I would just try to continue the streak,'' he said.

He was least bothered about the change in venues as the tournament was shifted to Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) which would host three day matches and also was not worried about the shortening of the series.

''That was up to the Board to decide, whether we'll play three matches or five. And the change of venue doesn't matter because it's going to be a similar pitch at SSC,'' he added.

Monday's bomb blast and South Africa's subsequent withdrawal did affect Team India's approach to the matches but Yuvraj said life goes on.

''We didn't hear about the blast, to be honest. But when somebody came and told us, the players felt strange. Anyway, you have come here with a business and you have to carry on. We took it in our stride and getting on with the job. There is not much change in the mindset. We are raring to go,'' he explained.

UNI AY PM RK1330