Malinga Lights Up Murky Day

What looked like one way traffic for a good part was suddenly brought alive by a slinger whose hairdo gets more headlines than his ability to deliver unplayable in-swinging Yorkers. To Lasith Malinga should the credit go for producing the most significant spell in recent limited overs history. Pity the effort had to go in vain.

South Africa have always had their fair share of problems when chasing targets. And self doubts would have returned to haunt them after this close encounter, while Sri Lanka's confidence will have received a major boost after this lion-hearted show in the field.

Malinga brings back memories of two fast bowlers who terrorized batsmen all over the world - Jeff Thomson of Australia for his action and Waquar Younis of Pakistan for his ability to swerve the ball in to the toes of the batsman. It was a remarkable fight back by the bowler who was seen as the weak link in the attack.

Sri Lanka have one problem to address at the moment and that is the form of skipper Jayawardene. It is always a problem for the team composition if the captain is not delivering the goods and it would be for the better of his team's fortunes if Jayawardene finds his feet quickly.

Australia proved beyond doubt on what stuff they are made of, even on a wicket that suited their style of play the least. But with this commanding win over the West Indies, they have served a severe warning to all other sides in the competition. Their weakest link is their bowling, but even that department seems to be picking up. Backed by some excellent fielding, they will be as good as any other side in the tournament.

The game today between New Zealand and West Indies is very crucial as games involving these two teams and Sri Lanka is likely to decide the outcome of the super eight and pilot the final four entry. On paper the Kiwis look more organized, but if Chris Gayle can fire, West Indies will look an entirely different team. Promises to be a razor sharp contest.