Sri Lanka's unsung weapon

A veteran of three World Cups, Chaminda Vaas knows what it takes to bowl out the best in the biggest cricketing tournament. And he has done this with a great deal of success starting with Sri Lanka's triumph in 1996 to the semi-final loss in 2003.

Vaas has had to spend much of his career in the shadow of the enigmatic Muttiah Muralitharan, but he has had his moments too. Especially in World Cups. In 2003, he became the first bowler ever to take a hat-trick with the first three balls of a match against Bangladesh. His 6/25 on the day are among the best figures in World Cup history and ensured him his place among the games greats.

While career ODI average with the ball is an impressive 26.95, in World Cups, it is even better at just 20.94 runs per wicket. His 36 wickets in 21 appearances have pushed him to the top of the pile for top wicket-takers in World Cups and in 2003, he was the highest wicket-taker with 23 wickets, a World Cup record.

Vaas has been one bowler who has not sought out the limelight. He has been happy to let some of his more illustrious peers bask in it and stay content with doing the job at hand time and again. And he continues to do that with just as much enthusiasm now as when he started out.

In the last year and a bit, he has played in 29 matches for Sri Lanka taking 39 wickets. His job at the start of an innings is two-faced: take wickets and contain runs. Vaas is known for his deadly accuracy and the ability to snare wickets when most needed. He may look innocuous thanks to an economical, albeit high-arm action, but make no mistake… he is deadly when the ball starts talking.

The 2007 World Cup will indeed be his last and he is a player Sri Lanka will find very hard to replace. He knows what it takes to win a World Cup and is aware of the fact that after this one, Sri Lanka may never have as good a collection of players who could be contenders. Like many others, Chaminda Vaas would like to end his World Cup career on a high. And that's what makes this tournament in 2007 special.

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