The former Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews will make his fourth ODI World Cup appearance as he steps in to replace the injured Matheesha Pathirana in Sri Lanka’s 2023 World Cup squad.
Sri Lanka has enlisted experienced all-rounder Angelo Mathews to step in for the injured Matheesha Pathirana in their 2023 World Cup roster. Pathirana sustained a shoulder injury during a match against Pakistan on October 10, leading to his exit from the tournament.
Sri Lanka Cricket management had earlier designated Mathews and pacer Dushmantha Chameera as traveling reserves to provide prompt replacements for the team, should any existing squad member face an injury.
While Dushmantha Chameera might have been the straightforward choice, Sri Lanka Cricket has opted for batting stability with the inclusion of Angelo Mathews. A veteran of 221 ODIs, the 36-year-old Mathews boasts a respectable record, scoring 5865 runs at an average of 41.01 and taking 120 wickets with his medium pace. He typically occupies the middle-order and, during his prime, was a reliable new-ball bowler.
Mathews has had a history of being in and out of the national team in recent years, but his experience makes him a valuable addition. He has participated in the last three World Cup editions and delivered a memorable performance, including a century against India in the 2019 World Cup.
This adds to a series of injuries that have plagued the Sri Lankan team, with key players, including captain Dasun Shanaka, already sidelined. With just one win in five matches, Sri Lanka finds themselves in the ninth position in the standings, slightly ahead of England based on net run rate.
Last Updated on October 24, 2023
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