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Test cricket is ultimate format for Lankan skipper Mathews

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Press Trust of India Jaipur
Twenty20 cricket is money-spinning and popular but for Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews, nothing comes close to the thrill of playing Test cricket.

"Test is the ultimate format. I really enjoy playing Test cricket. It's not always as easy as you think, but Test is the ultimate form. And we (Sri Lankans) always enjoy playing Test cricket," Mathews, who leads the Test and ODI side of the country, said.

Mathews, who has been named skipper of Sri Lanka's ODI squad for the Champions Trophy next month, said the team has a right blend of experience of youth and they will give their best shot in the eight-nation tournament.
 

"We are playing in a strong group. We have New Zealand, Australia and England. We will give our best shot and see how it goes. We have got some really good guys who are professional in things. You know professionalism is always there in our team. It makes the job easier for the skipper. We have got some really good youngsters coming through. We need to have that correct combination in the World Cup," he said.

"Seniors are important part of the team. Tillakaratne Dilshan, Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara have always been there. They always give the full support in helping out the youngsters," he added.

Sri Lankan cricket, which hasn't tasted much success in the recent past, will get back to its winning ways soon but one needs to be patient with the results, said Mathews.

"It's looking very bright but it needs time. It doesn't happen in a few a months' time. It takes time. You have to be patient with that. You have to go smoothly. You have introduced few youngsters as well as you need to have that combination of seniors and juniors," he said.

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First Published: May 05 2013 | 5:25 PM IST

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