In an intriguing turn of events, Sri Lanka’s World Cup lineup has undergone a big change. Angelo Mathews, the experienced all-rounder, has been called up to replace the injured Matheesha Pathirana.

According to Sri Lanka Cricket’s official release, the Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 approved this strategic modification. Matheesha Pathirana was forced to withdraw from the competition due to a shoulder injury sustained during a warm-up match. Pathirana was unable to recuperate in time, despite considerable rehabilitation attempts, putting Sri Lanka in severe need of a replacement. Mathews, who has played 221 ODIs for Sri Lanka, was the obvious pick to fill this hole.

The 36-year-old Mathews has a lot of experience to help Sri Lanka’s campaign. He’s a powerful batsman with 5865 runs to his record, including three centuries and 40 fifties. His all-round abilities are shown in his 120 ODI wickets, demonstrating his variety. This is his fourth World Cup appearance, dating back to his debut in the 2011 event.

Mathews’ return is much more intriguing given his earlier exclusion from Sri Lanka’s World Cup selection. He was, however, recalled as a traveling reserve alongside fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera. After losing their captain, Dasun Shanaka, to a quadriceps rupture early in the tournament, this drama of replacements has become typical of Sri Lanka’s World Cup adventure. Chamika Karunaratne has since stepped in for Shanaka, and Kusal Mendis has been named captain in his absence.

Sri Lanka’s World Cup campaign has been everything from smooth sailing. Even before the competition began, they had to deal with the unavailability of key players such as Wanindu Hasaranga and Shanaka due to injuries. Angelo Mathews’ participation represents a proactive attitude, emphasizing the importance of a strong and seasoned lineup in the face of adversity.

Mathews, who has a phenomenal ODI average of 41, has proven his prowess on the cricketing stage. His impressive score of 40 half-centuries and three centuries demonstrates his ability to effectively anchor innings. He has 120 wickets as a bowler, with a personal high of 6/20, contributing to Sri Lanka’s bowling ability.

Sri Lanka hopes to make the most of their remaining matches. They are ninth in the standings after winning only one of their last four games. The Lankans will face England in today’s (October 26) encounter and it will be more exciting to watch as both teams desperately need a win to stay in the contest.