Melbourne: Keen to continue their winning spree in the ongoing CB series, Australia will take their inconsequential match against Sri Lanka on Friday as a virtual final.

Wicketkeeper-batsmanAdam Gilchrist said every member of the team is looking forward to the game and the match will not be treated as a practice game. “We’ve certainly taken the approach that our finals campaign starts now,” Gilchrist said.

“You could say it would be better not playing the game and have a clear run into the finals and preparation. But we’ve got this game to use how we want to use it, and it’s not as a practice game. “I’m sure every individual is looking to have their own specific things. I’m sure Ricky will want to back up now, the runs that he’s scored, and Symmo. I’ve had a few teens, twenties scores since my hundred in Perth too,” he added.

On the other hand, Sri Lankan Captain Mahela Jayawardene was disappointed at his team’s poor run as they managed to win only one game in the series. “No team wants to lose four-five games in a tournament and not have a successful run,” Jayawardene said.

However, Gilchrist, who will retire after the ongoing CB series, said as the finals are approaching, the reality of retirement is playing on his emotions. “I’m getting more and more reflective. The way people are expressing their emotions is making it even more of an emotional time.”

Source : DNA