Lankan PM's message to team ahead of QF: Keep an eye on de Villiers

Wishing the Sri Lankan team ahead of their knock-out quarterfinal clash against South Africa, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe today warned the Angelo Mathews-led side to "keep an eye on Proteas skipper AB de Villiers" who has been in rampaging form in the tournament.

"You have become the pride of our nation, we in turn request you to become victorious", Wickremesinghe told the players ahead of their knockout match in Sydney.

Third-placed Sri Lanka will not have it easy against second-placed South Africa, from pool B, at the SCG on Wednesday.

"You can do it, keep an eye on De Villiers".

Wickremesinghe said the islanders could beat South Africa if weaknesses are studied and strategies planned accordingly.

President Maithripala Sirisena also wished the team and said in his message that he was extremely thankful to Kumar Sangakkara for his excellent feats that have helped push Sri Lanka to international heights.

Both leaders wished Lanka the ability to return to the country victorious.

Sirisena's action stood in contrast with his predecessor.

Mahinda Rajapaksa travelled to watch games whenever a Sri Lankan team reaches finals including the last edition in 2011 in Mumbai.