Indian seamer Irfan Pathan [Images] played down his claims to be a genuine all rounder despite his career-best 93 in the second Test against Sri Lanka [Images] on Monday.

The 21-year-old Pathan's effort as a makeshift opener helped India to an overall lead of 297 after they ended day three on 237 for five in their second innings.

"I'm a bit disappointed to miss out on a first Test hundred, but glad I helped the team," Pathan told reporters after the day's play.

"Today I played positively and waited for the balls in the right areas."

Pathan made his third Test fifty and was particularly impressive against off spinner Muttiah Muralitharan, who went wicketless after claiming seven for 100 in the first innings.

Pathan has raised hopes in cricket-mad India that he can fill the void left by all rounder Kapil Dev's [Images] retirement in 1994.

"I've always been confident about my batting but I want to avoid pressure," Pathan said.

"One doesn't become an all rounder in one or two years, I have to keep performing."

Chaminda Vaas [Images] was delighted after becoming only the second Sri Lankan after Muttiah Muralitharan to reach 300 Test wickets.

"I've been playing for 10 years now, I have waited for this moment," he said.

The 31-year-old Vaas believes Sri Lanka can still claim their maiden test victory in India.

"This wicket is still good, but if we bowl out India for less than 350 (lead), we have a chance to win."