President wishes Sri Lanka team well

President Mahinda Rajapaksa has sent a message to the Sri Lanka cricket team in the West Indies, wishing them all success at the forthcoming ICC World Cup tournament.

In a special message to Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene, the sports-loving President has wished the team all success at the mega event. Prior to the Lankan team's departure, President Rajapaksa took time off his busy schedule on a state visit to China to telephone Sri Lanka captain Jayawardene.

President Rajapaksa also spoke personally to veteran Sanath Jayasuriya, who was adjudged the Most Valuable Player at the 1996 World Cup. "You have the talent and ability to make our country proud," the President said in his message to the team. The Lankan cricketers were given a grand send-off by cricket-crazy local supporters and well-wishers.

President Rajapaksa's call from China to Sri Lanka cricket captain came as the team members were served sweetmeats and milk rice. The official departure ceremony commenced with a traditional religious ceremony.

Sri Lanka will launch their 2007 World Cup campaign on March 15 with a first round Group 'B' match against Bermuda at Queens Park Oval, Trinidad.

Bangladesh and India are their other opponents in this group. Sixteen countries are clashing for honours at the 2007 Cricket Olympiad.