Colombo: Sports Minister Johnston Fernando on Sunday rejected the resignation of Sri Lankan cricket captain Sanath Jayasuriya. "I appreciate Sanath's freedom to send in his resignation. The authorities also have the freedom to reject or accept it." "Captains are picked by the selectors based on seniority, experience and capability. I have therefore refused to accept Sanath's resignation," Fernando said. Jayasuriya had announced over state television on Saturday that he was quitting the captaincy. "I have tendered my resignation to the Minister of Sports. With my decision I have given the opportunity to the selectors to opt for a new captain with the 2007 World Cup in mind," Jayasuriya said. Jayasuriya and the Sri Lankan team returned to the island on Friday after an unsuccessful run in the World Cup in South Africa, being knocked out in the semi- final on Tuesday by cup favorite Australia. Jayasuriya took over the Sri Lankan leadership after the country's disastrous show in the 1999 World Cup held in England, where it failed to reach the Super Six stage. Jayasuriya succeeded Arjuna Ranatunga as part of the then policy of the national selectors to infuse new blood and has led the team ever since. In 2002, he became Sri Lanka's most successful Test captain ever by winning a record 10 consecutive Tests. Copyright AFP 2001

Extras:
Jayasuriya quits as Sri Lankan captain

Tags: cricket, world cup 2003, sports minister johnston fernando, sanath jayasuriya, arjuna ranatunga.