SAJEEWA JAYAKODY
Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews, a former captain from the 2015 World Cup, is ready to play in his fourth ICC World Cup and is expected to feature in the critical match against England at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Thursday. Mathews is aware that England will put up a tough fight, but he and his team are prepared for the challenge.
When asked about playing against England and the possibility of repeating their previous World Cup victory in 2019 at Headingley, Mathews emphasized that this is a different situation with new conditions and a different team. He stressed the need for a strong performance against a formidable England side.
Mathews also mentioned that he is flexible about his batting position and is committed to contributing to the team’s success in any way necessary.
Regarding his unexpected recall to the team, Mathews explained that certain things are beyond his control, and he focused on maintaining his fitness and skills to be prepared when the opportunity arose.
In response to Afghanistan’s win over Pakistan, Mathews refrained from calling it an upset, highlighting that any team can perform well on a given day. He emphasized the importance of winning most of their upcoming matches to secure a chance at the semi-finals.
Mathews expressed his willingness to bowl if the captain entrusts him with the ball, as he has prepared to contribute in various aspects of the game.
Reflecting on Kusal Mendis, who made his debut under Mathews’ captaincy, Mathews commended his growth as a player and leader.
Playing in his fourth World Cup, Mathews emphasized his ability to stay focused on his responsibilities and shut out distractions.
He wished a speedy recovery to Matheesha, who had to leave the World Cup due to injury, and expressed his commitment to guiding the team toward the semi-finals.
Despite playing only three ODI games in the past three years, Mathews gained confidence from his performance in the LPL and is eagerly looking forward to the World Cup.
In terms of historical matchups, England has won 38 out of 78 ODI matches against Sri Lanka, while Sri Lanka has won 36, and 3 matches ended in a draw.
Probable Sri Lanka XI: 1 Kusal Mendis (C & WK), 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.