Sri Lanka skipper Mahela Jayawardene insisted his team always believed they could win the Asia Cup final despite being bowled out for less than 300 runs, cricket365.com reported on its web site.

Sri Lanka were bowled out by India for 273 on a pitch which saw scores in excess of 300 being easily overhauled earlier in the competition.

But new spinning sensation Ajantha Mendis claimed six wickets for 13 runs to help the the Indian Ocian islanders to a 100-run victory.

Mendis’ display with the ball saw him named Man of the Match and of the Tournament.

"We have played in lots of finals and we knew that 300 might not be the target for the final," Jayawardene said during the presentation ceremony.

"We thought 270 or 280 would be good enough. We were in trouble early on, but Sanath (Jayasuriya) bailed us out."

Sri Lanka were struggling at 66 for four when Jayasuriya scored 125 off 114 deliveries to bolster the Sri Lankan total.Middle order bat T. M. Dilshan provided Jayaweera support with a confident 59.

"It was tremendous performance from Sanath. He again came in and did what he does best," added Jayawardene.

Jayawardene claimed his side knew they had to pick up regular wickets to have any chance of victory.

He said: "We knew we had to pick up wickets regularly and that’s what we did. Mendis came in and bowled brilliantly and everyone else chipped in.

"It was good effort from the players. We haven’t had a good 2008, so this victory is good for us."

India tour Sri Lanka later this month and Jayawardene said his players were looking forward to the series.

"It will be an interesting series and it will be tough. We are looking forward to it," he continued.

Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni admitted his batsmen failed to come to terms with Mendis.

"Frankly, we just didn’t pick him," said Dhoni. "He bowled really well. His line and length was consistent and that’s probably what did us in.

"However, it was a good lesson for us. We will obviously see more of him in the series in Sri Lanka. This experience could prove handy."

Asked if he was disappointed to lose another final, Dhoni added: "Yes it is disappointing, but at least we were in the final.