SAJEEWA JAYAKODY
Sri Lanka’s veteran cricketer, Angelo Mathews, has been named in the original 15-member squad for the ICC World Cup, taking the place of injured player Matheesha Pathiarana, according to team sources.
This decision was given the green light by the ICC’s Event Technical Committee. Mathews is known for his impressive batting skills, with an average of 41, which is the highest among the current lineup. As a result, the 36-year-old Mathews is set to automatically join the squad and will replace the all-rounder Chamika Karunaratne in the crucial match against England scheduled for Thursday in Bengalaru.
The revised 15-man squad now includes: 1. Kusal Mendis (captain), 2. Pathum Nissanka, 3. Dhananjaya de Silva, 4. Sadeera Samarawickrama, 5. Kusal Perera, 6. Charith Asalanka, 7. Angelo Mathews, 8. Dunith Wellalage, 9. Maheesh Theekshana, 10. Kasun Rajitha, 11. Dilshan Madushanka, 12. Dushan Hemantha, 13. Chamika Karunartne, 14. Dimuth Karunaratne, 15. Lahiru Kumara.
Sri Lanka is now feeling optimistic about their upcoming match against England. The team’s batting lineup is strong, with Angelo Mathews, known for his ability to finish games well and play calculated innings, occupying the number seven position. In addition to his batting prowess, Mathews’ right-arm medium-pace bowling will play a crucial role in the Sri Lankan bowling unit. This unit is led by left-arm paceman Dilshan Madushanka, one of the leading wicket-takers in the tournament, and Kasun Rajitha, who has been performing exceptionally well in swinging conditions.
