The ascendency of India as an economic world power

Ajantha Mendis was one of the most-talked players before the first test kicked off at the Sinhalese Sports Club. Media was so excited with debutant Mendis that Muralitharan was given very little space in the newspapers. All the media focus was on Mendis after his match winning performance in the Asia Cup 2008 final against India.

Muttiah Muralitharan once again proved that he has the ability to make his presence felt in any condition. In fact, the off-spinner pushed India’s top order all the way on the third day, picking up four important wickets including Gambhir, Tendulkar, Ganguly and Karthik. India is now facing follow-on due to his excellent bowling. You can say that Muralitharan might have received enough support from Mendis who was keeping the pressure on Indian batsmen at the other end. However, still that does not mar the classy performance Muttiah Muralitharan produced today.