Mathews says Gul`s return played crucial role in Pak`s win

Islamabad: Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews has admitted dropping a catch off Pakistan centurion Mohammad Hafeez and paceman Umar Gul`s return played a crucial role in his team`s defeat in the third one-day match in Sharjah , according to reports.

According to the Dawn, Lasith Malinga dropped a sitter at long-on off leg-spinner Seekuge Prassana`s bowling when Hafeez was on 26 in the 18th over Sunday. The Pakistani vice-captain went on to hit a career best 140 not out in his team`s imposing total of 326-5 in 50 overs, the report said. Sri Lanka were bowled out for 213 in 44.4 overs, losing by 113 runs and conceding a 2-1 lead, the report added. Pakistan won the first match by 11 runs while Sri Lanka took the second by two wickets, the report further said. Mathews said the dropped catch was crucial, the report mentioned. He also said Umar Gul`s return from injury was a boost for Pakistan, according to the report.