We did everything right: Mathews

Angelo Mathews suffered his first series loss as skipper after South Africa drew the second Test to clinch the series 1-0. Speaking after the game, the Lankan captain said he was disappointed that the hosts could not square the series while he praised the efforts of his players.

The morning session was ruined by rain but the Sri Lankans did not lose heart as the spinners bowled quite a few overs and kept going hard at the South African batsmen. However, their efforts proved futile in the end as South Africa managed to secure a thrilling draw to clinch the two-match Test series 1-0.

"Disappointing not to end up on the winning side, credit to the team to how they responded after the first Test. We did everything right, we lost only about 13 overs," Mathews said, referring to the rain, which meant that only 7 overs were possible in the first session.

Rangana Herath was terrific with the ball, picking up a five-wicket haul but his efforts went in vain as South Africa, chasing 369 on a tricky SSC wicket, managed to end the Test at 159/8, holding on for 111 testing overs sent down by the Lankans, including 94 on the final day.

Mathews praised Herath for his fine bowling performance while the Lankan skipper was also happy with the batting efforts of Mahela Jayawardene.

"One of the best innings I have seen from Mahela. It was a different wicket, not the normal SSC, it was pretty sportive, the batters had to work hard, not the normal flat wicket where it becomes a batting paradise after the first couple of sessions," Mathews said.

The Lankan captain was also impressed with the way South Africans played in the series and said: "They are a very hard team to beat, whether home or away."

Mahela, who was named the Man of the Match for his fine hundred in the first innings, said the pitch suited the batsmen. "I think we were lucky to win the toss. It was a decent wicket to bat on. It became slow and low later on."

The series win helped South Africa regain the number 1 ranking in Test cricket and Mahela said they deserved the top rank for the way they played in the series.

"It would have been better had we won. South Africa are a tough side, they are wonderful competitors and deserve the number one rank. They showed what a classy unit they have been," he said.

Mahela said he was looking forward to doing well in the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, which would be his last. "I am enjoying my final few Tests. Will look to finish off on a high against Pakistan."