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My last WC: Chaminda Vaas

Special Correspondent

Port of Spain : Sri Lanka's left-arm seamer Chaminda Vaas said on Monday that the 2007 edition would be his last World Cup, though he would like to play both forms of the game for the next two years.

The 33-year-old, part of the side that won the 1996 edition, is in his fourth World Cup. He took a hat-trick in the 2003 World Cup, and finished its leading wicket-taker.

"I really enjoyed the previous two World Cups," said Vaas. "I had a good 2003. (It would be nice) if I can finish well with some record, but all is in God's hands."

What is the secret of his longevity? "I follow very simple routines — do your basics, look after yourself and train well."

Vaas's role has changed over the years. His control ensures, however, that he'll be a handful on surfaces such as the ones here at the Queen's Park Oval, especially if Sri Lanka bowls first.

Despite being Sri Lanka's second-most successful bowler — second only to Muttiah Muralitharan — Vaas is rarely mentioned in discussions on the best contemporary bowlers. Does it affect him? "It's part of my nature to remain in the background," he said. "As long as I am training well and playing well, I am not worried."

Vaas said his opening partner Lasith Malinga, one of the quickest bowlers in the world, would improve further.

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