Sport

Looking forward to sporting pitch at Ahmedabad: Smith

Chennai: South African captain Graeme Smith said Virender Sehwag had made the difference in the match.

“We had set the game up well and I think it needed an incredible innings and India got that. I think even if Virender had been out for 200, we would have had an opportunity to have a go at India.

“It was a good batting track. Even though the Test ended in a draw it has set us up very nicely for the next Test. There are a few things we’ve learned, and we can hopefully make it count in the next Test.

“Obviously you would love a wicket that allows a little bit more for the bowlers. It will be interesting to get to Ahmedabad and see what the pitch looks like. We’re hoping for a pitch that can provide a good balance between bat and ball,” he said.

The batting came in for praise from the skipper. “I’m very happy with the way the top six have performed. We’ve provided scores in recent Tests.

Hashim (Amla) played superbly in this game, and taken his game to a new level, and is technically and mentally looking sound. I’ll love to see him build on where he is now, get better and better. Neil (McKenzie) is quite an experienced cricketer. He’s added value to our team, and was very much in control through this Test. In our bowling, (Dale) Steyn and (Paul) Harris have done well.

“I think we’ve played spin pretty well this season, in Pakistan, Bangladesh and here. We’ve generally proven we can play it well. Depending on what we get now, it’s going to be a challenge in the subcontinent,” he said.

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu