Mid-Day

Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup-winning skipper Arjuna Ranatunga reckoned India will have the edge over Australia in today Super Eights tie at the R Premadasa Stadium here.

“The slow wicket will suit India better and I won’t be surprised if MS Dhoni opens the bowling with either Harbhajan Singh or R Ashwin.

Not throwing in the towel: Virender Sehwag holds a towel during a practice session ahead of India’s Super Eights match against Australia in Colombo yesterday. Pic/AFP

Ranatunga said that India can’t afford to drop a player like Virender Sehwag for this important game. “Australia have some pace power so you need a specialist opening batsman. Irfan Pathan (who opened in the last game against England) can be used as a pinch-hitter,” he said.

The Sri Lankan all-time great felt Australia have just three key batsmen – Shane Watson, David Warner and Michael Hussey. “India will do well to get rid of them early. In comparison, India have a terrific batting order and that’s why I tip Dhoni’s team to win,” said Ranatunga, who also emphasised on the need to “counter sledge” the Australia in case they give India some lip service.