Kolkata, April 21 (IANS) After leading his side to a magnificent win against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Kochi Tuskers Kerala skipper Mahela Jayawardena Wednesday night lauded his players for rising up to the occasion after a modest batting effort.

"It was great team effort. The variation bowlers bowled well. The boys stood up to the occasion," said Mahela.

"We played smart. We knew we had to take opportunities. We took up the opportunities. We lost three wickets but the other guys played well and built good partnerships," said Mahela who was also adjudged the Man of the Match.

"The bowlers bowled well. We had variation and we used it well. Ramesh (Powar),(Ravindra) Jadeja and Murli (Muttiah Murlitharan) are top class spinners."

Mahela said he was proud of his boys who played good cricket. "We got crucial wickets early. The fielding was outstanding."

"Lot of hard work is needed in the coming days. Hope to carry forward the momentum," he said.