His opening pair with Romesh Kaluwitharana was the highlight of the world-cup where they created fear in the bowlers mind by going after them. They demoralized the opposition with over-the-top hitting and made the most of the 15 overs fielding restrictions.
He played a pivotal role in teams victory against Kenya (44 runs of 27 balls), India (79 runs of 76 balls), England (82 from 44 balls & 2/36) in Quarter Final and in the semi-final against India, he picked up three vital wickets inclu of dangerous Sachin Tendulkar and Sanjay Manjrekar to triggered the collapse of Indian batting line-up.
"He has batted well, fielded brilliantly, and when given the ball, has come up with crucial wickets. What else can I ask of a player?" quipped Sri Lanka captain Arjuna Ranatunga when Jayasuriya won the award.
