The Hindu : Sport : A dynamic leader

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Saturday, Aug 05, 2006

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A dynamic leader

Jayawardene has been underestimated. Beyond argument he must be appointed for a longer term.

PETER ROEBUCK

Not so long ago Sri Lankan cricket appeared to be sliding inexorably into the pit that awaits nations whose progress has been stymied by endless internal eruptions. Retirements and wranglings had dashed hopes that the cricketing forces across the land might merge into a single formidable outfit.

Not until the last few months has Sri Lankan cricket surged back to life. Two crucial decisions lie behind this revival. An intelligent, firm and sympathetic coach was appointed, and the captaincy fell into the hands of a respected and dynamic leader.

Over the years a tendency has arisen to credit the nearest foreigner with any advance made in the fortunes of a dusky nation. Anyone watching the movie about Steve Biko could be forgiven for thinking that the white reporter involved did more to end apartheid than the brave black leader. Therefore let us first sing the praises of Mahela Jayawardene. Apart from anything else, cricket teams are run by captains. Until he took charge of the side upon Marvan Atapattu withdrawing with an injury, Jayawardene seemed to be a charming lightweight.

As a batsman, he had all the shots and a pleasing style but he thought like a youngster, lacked authority at the crease. Also he smiled a lot, which is usually a bad sign. In short, he seemed likely to delight crowds without ever imposing himself on the game.

Power must change a man. He must rid himself of encumbrances the better to meet to its challenges with appropriate vigour. Most unexpectedly, Jayawardene responded to his promotion with conviction.

Far from appearing nervous, he plunged into the action. Putting aside youthful ways with the abruptness displayed by the newly crowned Henry the IVth, and uninhibited by the temporary nature of his elevation, Jayawardena immediately set about building a sense of unity and purpose.

Mighty performances

Nor did the newcomer fall to lead by example. In the last few weeks, he has constructed several large and critical innings, mighty performances that have taken him into a deserved place in the top ten of the rankings.

He scored heavily in England as his side fought back to square the series, and returned home to take a terrible toll of the South African attack. These are not pipsqueak opponents to be subdued with a feather duster. Plainly Jayawardene has been inspired by his responsibilities. Plainly he has been underestimated. Appearances can mislead. Beyond argument he must be appointed for a longer term.

Tom Moody also deserves credit for his contribution. Scorned as his apparently hapless team limped from defeat to defeat, he is now recognised as a capable, adaptable and level-headed coach who has helped to build an aggressive side that plays with unfailing desire. Although sustained by a handful of magnificent cricketers, his side plays as a team and, so long as the administration plays its part, can look forward to more victories hereafter.

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