Maharoof gives Sri Lanka semi-final headache

ST GEORGE'S/GRENADA: Sri Lanka seamer Farveez Maharoof gave Sri Lanka a World Cup semi-final selection headache on Wednesday when he claimed four victims in his team's Super Eights eight-wicket win over Ireland.   

Maharoof, playing in the side because of an injury to Lasith Malinga while Dilhara Fernando was rested, made a strong case to retain his place for next Tuesday's semi-final in Jamaica with a blistering performance with the ball.   

He also ran out Ireland skipper Trent Johnston as Sri Lanka bowled out their opponents for just 77 before wrapping up victory comfortably before the lunch break at the Grenada National Stadium.   

"It's a good headache to have," said Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene when quizzed if the 22-year-old Maharoof would start the semi-final which is likely to be against New Zealand.   

"Everyone in this squad has put their hands up when it comes to performing. It would be a worse headache if we were not performing.   

"We have achieved our goal of making the semi-finals. When we left Sri Lanka we knew we had to concentrate hard, we knew we had the talent to make the last four but we just had to execute our plans. That was the hardest thing."   

Maharoof finished with four for 25 in 10 overs, a spell that saw the pace bowler take three wickets in four balls in his first over.   

Muttiah Muralitharan also took four wickets as Ireland were dismissed for just 77 - the sixth lowest total in the competition's history.