Sri Lanka's captain Kumar Sangakkara believes India will be a threat in the final.
He said on Friday, “India has lifted itself for the final and has outplayed us on many occasions.”
The Sri Lankan skipper also felt the spin of the coin would not be a major factor. “There have been questions whether toss was an advantage? I don't think,” Sangakkara said.
He felt India should be given credit for winning consistently. “This suggests they (India) are used to that. We have been in a lot of finals as well. We have to make sure that we lift ourselves tomorrow for a special effort.”
He added, “I watched India's game against New Zealand. India took advantage of the conditions and managed to put pressure on the Kiwis. The bowlers bowled the right line and attacked.”
The Sri Lankan captain was aware of the danger posed by Virender Sehwag's bludgeoning blade. “I think a lot of people have tried a lot of things against him. He (Sehwag) is an excellent player. So if you get him early, I think it is an advantage for us,” he said.
Sangakkara said even the batsmen who were struggling for runs could make a crucial contribution in the final. “They may not play a big innings but their runs could be important for the side.”
He said both teams had put the Suraj Randiv no-ball controversy behind. “The teams have moved on. The India-Sri Lanka rivalry is a great one.”
Sangakkara wanted his side to evolve mentally. “When things become tougher, the entire side has an opportunity to show character, build character and become mentally stronger. So I think our side is well on the way.”
On whether the six-day break before the final would impact the team's rhythm, he said, “It is a question that we will have to answer tomorrow. I think when you are going well, it is nice to keep going in important games. However, before the tournament started we knew the schedule. So there are no complaints from our side.”
