Sri Lanka has made a major adjustment to their World Cup squad, calling up the veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews to step in for the injured Matheesha Pathirana.
Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed that the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 Event Technical Committee approved the move. The decision followed Matheesha Pathirana's unfortunate shoulder injury during a warm-up match; despite trying everything to recover in time, he was forced to withdraw. To fill this critical gap, the team turned to Angelo Mathews, whose experience across 221 ODIs makes him the ideal substitute.
At 36, Mathews provides the stability and leadership Sri Lanka needs. He is a formidable presence with the bat, having amassed 5,865 runs, including 40 fifties and three hundreds. His value as a true all-rounder is highlighted by his 120 ODI wickets. This tournament represents his fourth time competing on the World Cup stage, dating back to his first appearance in 2011.
Mathews' inclusion is especially noteworthy since he wasn't part of the initial squad selection, having only been attached as a traveling reserve with Dushmantha Chameera. This revolving door of players has become a theme for Sri Lanka this tournament, especially after captain Dasun Shanaka was knocked out by a quadriceps rupture. While Chamika Karunaratne replaced Shanaka, Kusal Mendis has taken over the leadership role.
It has been a rocky road for Sri Lanka in this World Cup. The team has been plagued by bad luck and injuries, missing key stars like Shanaka and Wanindu Hasaranga from the start. Bringing in Angelo Mathews is a strategic move to stabilize the squad and lean on veteran experience during a difficult run.
With a solid ODI average of 41, Mathews has a proven track record at the highest level. His ability to hold an innings together is evidenced by his 40 half-centuries and three tons, while his bowling—highlighted by a career-best 6/20—adds crucial depth to Sri Lanka's attack.
Now, Sri Lanka is fighting to salvage their tournament. Currently sitting ninth in the table with just one win from their last four outings, they face England today (October 26). With both sides desperate for a victory to keep their hopes alive, it promises to be a high-stakes clash.