“I think the motivation is that you’re playing for your country. I think you’ve seen on the field that there’s two passionate teams playing for their countries,” Silverwood said on the eve of the first ODI. “I think putting on that jersey and representing your country is motivation enough. And that’s exactly what we feel in our dressing room. So, the motivation is there.”
While both sides have, at least outwardly, spoken towards putting an end to the back and forth, Silverwood acknowledged that the rivalry has brought about a good competitive edge to both sides.
“The rivalry is obviously great. I think we need good competition. And as I said about the T20, it was two good sides and we’re going to play some competitive cricket. I expect exactly the same again in this tournament, in this series. So that’s what I’ll be looking for, some strong cricket being played. And obviously both teams will be looking for the same, I should imagine.”
In terms of ODI preparation, this is a Sri Lanka side still at the start of its cycle, one which they have begun extremely well with series wins against Zimbabwe and Afghanistan – as well a string of high scores courtesy refreshing positive intent from their batters. And Silverwood is keen to keep building on this momentum.
“We’re in a new cycle now, so we’re again building towards a style of brand of cricket that we want to play in the next World Cup. And that’s something that we’re trying to invent within the team, and this again is part of that process of doing that.
“We’re trying to continue the momentum that we’ve had from the series at home as well in Sri Lanka, where we played some fantastic cricket. And I’ll be encouraging the guys to go out and do the same thing. So, the batsmen to go score big runs individually and as a team to put those big scores on the scoreboard. And we’re asking the bowlers to keep producing their skills and keep getting better and better.”
“I spoke earlier about fantastic individual contributions. You speak about Pathum in particular. I think what he achieved in Kandy was nothing short of exceptional. And obviously, we’re all very, very pleased with him in the dressing room. What he has done, he’s gone from strength to strength in the recent past and he’s become probably one of the most consistent performers within that batting lineup. So, he’s a key member of that batting lineup. It’s great to have him here.”
“I think he thoroughly deserves it. I think what we’ve seen in the T20 series has been very, very good. But to be fair to him, ever since, every time he’s got an opportunity, he’s taken it. So, you know, again, he’s done that. So, we have to give him all of a credit. He works incredibly hard. He’s very diligent with his preparation, and I think he’s got the results he deserves.”