After reading some heated comments by others I thought I'll jot down my thoughts as well.
Firstly, everyone needs to remember that after all said and done this is still just a game. Every team has their moments. In this particular series India outplayed Sri Lanka in all departments. A harsh reality check for Sri Lanka who came into the series with high expectations. True, the wickets weren't ideal for test cricket, but India handled them better (home advantage and all that jazz).
I'm not trying to run down Sri Lanka, far from it really. Just a recap of what I saw. Fortune favours the brave - and Sri Lanka certainly weren't brave from what I witnessed: defensive fields were set throughout and other than substantial contributions from Dilshan, Mahela and Paranavitana there wasn't a standout knock to motivate the other players (something like what Shewag did - basically grab the game from the opposition).
Sri Lanka however, will take heart that they did learn a lot from this series and will surely bounce back stronger in the next.
1. The performance of Paranavitana at the top - This young man is looking solid and is a good investment for the future. Dilshan with his usual explosiveness. Mahela did play well in the first game and signs that Sanga is coming back to his best. From the bowling perspective, the only bright spark was Herath. He seems to have found his confidence and persistence and is consistently getting wickets which is pleasant to see.
2. One important lesson learnt should be that going into a test match with just one front line fast bowler will just not cut it. Sri Lanka seem to do this time and time again. It never works! Its time to forget this and play the game. My take is this, if two quality spinners aren't going to cut it then definitely three aren't going to make a difference. Test cricket is all about variety and options. Out thinking your opponent, and to do that you have to have the weapons.
3. Another lession: Attack! When you have a new batsman at the crease attack him. No matter how good he is, he still has to take guard, get his eye in, ascertain the bowling before he plays his shots. The chance is always there for him to make a mistake. So attack! From what I saw, Sri Lanka lacked that.
Having said that, They are obviously a work in progress. Getting to number 2 in the world is not a small achievement. Its the result of consistent performances throughout and for that the captains, both Mahela (previously) and now Sanga are to be thanked.
Finally, Murali is certainly not a spent force. He's still the best - Everyone has opinions, but numbers don't lie. Unfortunately this series wasn't kind to him.
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