27.5.2008

Sports minister Gamini Lokuge has defended his intervention which led to Sanath Jayasuriya's recall to the Sri Lanka team.

The selectors did not name the veteran opener in the initial squad for the Asia Cup but he has since been added at the expense of Upul Tharanga.

Lokuge stressed that Jayasuriya deserved his place and was unrepentant for intervening.

"Originally Jayasuriya was dropped because his form was on the decline," he said. "Even Jayasuriya agreed that his form had dropped.

"But now in fairness to him he has struck form and he should be part of the team.

"This is something I have to do."

Lokuge insists he is happy with the selectors, despite their original omission of Jayasuriya.

"I have no problem with the present selection committee and I am happy with what they are doing," he added.

"In fact I have extended the term of the selectors by a further three months up to August to ensure everything is fine during the visit of India to Sri Lanka."

Courtesy - The Island