PTI 
 
ADELAIDE, Feb 20: Though disappointed to end up as the losing captain, Sri Lankan skipper Mahela Jayawardene on Tuesday appreciated the batting skills and temperament of his opposite number Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh in the tri-series one-dayer against India.

Jayawardene said the two rival batsmen adapted well to the situations and guided India to a thrilling two-wicket win.

"Both of them played differently at different situations. When they lost wickets in front, Yuvi came and got the momentum again," Jayawardene said at the post-match press conference.

"It's difficult to say who batted better both of them batted well in different situations. Yuvraj got the start he wanted. He wanted to change the game and he did. But we (with our poor bowling) also contributed to it."

Jayawardene said his team needed to tighten up every aspect of the game in order to stay in hunt for a place in the finals.

"We were 20 runs short in our total. In the fielding, we gave at least 15 extra runs and in bowling, we bowled too short and wide at times.

"We were not very consistent with our line and length and bowled a bit short and wide. Our fielding was not up to scratch."

Jayawardene said Kumara Sangakkar played one of the best innings of his career so far.

"Kumar and I have decided that we would look to bat majority of overs if we get a bad start. In the last few innings, I did not support him. I knew I had to step up the plate today."

"Kumar played one of the best I have seen him for quite some time. But still we could not get the finish right. We lost a few wickets in the end."

"Still credit to Kumar as from a bad situation to reach 238 was a good effort," he said.

Jaywardene believed his side would keep fighting despite the demoralising loss.

"I have not done my maths yet. But we cannot afford to lose. Every game is a semi-final for us from now on."

"We made a few mistakes at the start of the tournament but we are now getting into it. We will keep fighting and show the fighting spirit that we lately have been showing," he said.