Dubai pitch was helpful for batsmen: Mathews

Tuesday, 14 January 2014 00:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

DUBAI: Victorious Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews acknowledged that the Dubai pitch was helpful for batsmen. “Apart from the first day, this was a regular Dubai wicket. The spinners weren´t that successful on this wicket, it became a bit slow, but still good for the batsmen, as usual,” said Mathews, who hit 157 not out to draw the first Test. Mathews said the win was pleasing. “That´s what cricket is about. You need to keep fighting. I thought we did exactly that in the first Test. This is a wonderful victory with the help of the whole team,” said Mathews. Mathews contended that Pakistan remained a dangerous team. “The Pakistan team is an very good one and against this team you have to play positive cricket because if you give them even a little opportunity they will trample all over us. We played well throughout and won the difficult moments,” said Mathews. Mathews praised man-of-the-match Jayawardene. “He made a huge impact and we all hope that he´ll get better and better and I am sure he’ll play the next match as well,” said Mathews of the batsman who played with stitches on his left hand. (AFP)