Sri Lankan fans bring their own musical instruments to cricket matches during the World Cup – as has been their tradition over the years. —Photo by AFP

COLOMBO: Sri Lankan cricketers have declared that music is no distraction to them during the World Cup matches.

Vice captain Mahela Jayawardene said, “Music is a part of local cricket culture and players do not mind the music if it is played during the matches.”

The International Cricket Council had banned use of musical instruments in the last World Cup in the West Indies while the local authorities had also imposed ban on the use of musical instruments before the start of the present World Cup in Sri Lanka.

The authorities however yielded before the great public pressure and eased their restrictions. Jayawardene who was talking to journalists here said, “As a team we love playing in front of our own fans and if they use music or play musical instruments it boosts our morale and helps in gaining momentum during the game.”

The SL vice captain said, “The music, the attitude and the overall atmosphere is very important.”

“We grew up with this atmosphere when we played at schools and other competitive matches. That is a thing which I and other players enjoy.”

He maintained that there is a need to enjoy rather than being overwhelmed by that.

Jayawardene added, “As a team we love playing before our home crowd and there is no pressure or burden on any member of the team.”

Meanwhile, an electrifying atmosphere is expected at the Premadasa Stadium where the fourth quarter-final between Sri Lanka and England will be played.