The Nassau County ground's pitch has been subjected to severe criticism in the ongoing T20 World Cup, but Canada opener Aaron Johnson is not complaining as he believes such surfaces bring smaller teams into the game.

Johnson played the best innings of his T20I career, a 44-ball 52, against Pakistan on Tuesday but his team could not cross the line against an under-pressure opposition.

"I wouldn't say it's the best surface. It's a tricky surface. But when T20 cricket started, 120-130 was a good total. (Now) because you have flat belters, people are getting 200.

"I think if you have a surface like this, it evens the playing field and we fancy our chance against any opponent, not only Pakistan," Johnson said at the post-match news conference.

Johnson gave a brisk start to Canada with his belligerent strokeplay on the off side against one of the best pace attacks in the world. "I think it's my best innings so far in international cricket. And growing up, you know that Pakistan, one thing they have is quality fast bowling attack, right?

"And to be able to put a decent total on the board for my team, that's up there with the top, probably top two best innings for me," said Johnson, who was born in Jamaica.

Canada play their final league game against India on Saturday, and Johnson could not be more excited for the game in Lauderhill. "The moment you walk on the field, anyone can win. Yes, you have to have respect for these (Indian) guys, but it's about respecting yourself as well," Johnson emphasised.

Written with PTI inputs