Kumara Sangakkara, who scored a match winning century against Pakistan said he wanted to bat as long as he could.

Speaking to STAR Cricket after bagging a well deserved Man of the Match award, Sanga said: "I wanted to bat as long as I could. I backed myself to bat through the innings and that is what I did."

Sangakkara scored a stunning century to bail his team out of trouble.

Sri Lanka were in early trouble after they lost Sanath Jayasuriya and captain Mahela Jayawardene, who had started to look dangerous and was set for a big one.

Sangakkara played the sheet anchor's role to perfection and with healthy contributions from Chamara Silva and Chamara Kapudegera, ensured Sri Lanka reached a daunting total.

Sanga was all praise for the two young batsmen: "Kapugedera and Silva batted very well and with a lot of confidence. They helped us gain momentum in the middle overs."

The wicketkeeper batsman had good words for his bowlers as well: "The start Chaminda Vaas gave was very important. Mendis and Murali were on top of their game as well."

"The three fast bowlers, Vaas, Thushara and Kulasekara were brilliant for us. We needed the three powerplays to work in our favour and that is what happened."