Mathews at home in Mumbai, unlike Sangakkara

Wednesday, 16 March 2011 00:20 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

(Reuters) - Playing a group match abroad did not amuse Kumar Sangakkara but team mate Angelo Mathews believes Sri Lanka would lose none of their home advantage in Friday’s World Cup match against New Zealand in Mumbai.

The nature of the track and the conditions in Mumbai are similar to those in Sri Lanka and the team should not have any additional problem in the Group A match, Mathews said on Tuesday.

“It’s not a big deal,” the all-rounder told reporters.

“The conditions are similar to those in Sri Lanka and the wickets are also slow.

“We have also played in India often,” he pointed out.

Sri Lankan captain Sangakkara was rather unhappy at the prospect of playing a group match away.

“We were surprised when we learnt that we will have to travel to Mumbai to play that game. I thought hosts play at home,” he said earlier this month.

Both Sri Lanka and New Zealand are through to the quarter-finals from this group.

Mathews was happy to let team mates such as Tillakaratne Dilshan and Lasith Malinga corner glory but promised to chip in whenever the team needed.

“I can play an important role when there’s an opportunity. I will be even happy to play a small role, taking a crucial wicket and score some quick runs and help the team to win.”