Angelo Mathews, a seasoned all-rounder, will be participating in his fourth World Cup since the 2011 edition. The 36-year-old has a wealth of experience, having played 221 ODIs for Sri Lanka. He has accumulated 5865 runs, including three centuries and 40 fifties, and has also taken 120 wickets in the format. Pathirana suffered a shoulder injury during Sri Lanka's match against Pakistan and had not been able to play in subsequent games against Australia and the Netherlands. Read more on TOI
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In the world of cricket, there are certain players who become synonymous with their team. They are the backbone, the pillars of strength, and the ones who lead by example. One such player is Angelo Mathews, the former captain of the Sri Lankan cricket team. Mathews, known for his calm and composed demeanor, has been a vital cog in the Sri Lankan setup for many years. He has been a consistent performer with both bat and ball, and his leadership skills have been commendable. However, with time, injuries started to take a toll on Mathews, and his performances started to dip. In the lead up to the Cricket World Cup 2023, there were whispers about Mathews' future in the team. Some believed that his time as a player was coming to an end, while others argued that he still had a lot to offer. The selectors were faced with a tough decision - whether to persist with the experienced campaigner or look for fresh blood. Ultimately, the selectors decided to give Mathews one last chance to prove himself. They believed that his experience and knowledge of the game would be invaluable in the high-pressure tournament. Mathews was given the responsibility of leading the team as captain once again, replacing the current skipper. The decision was met with mixed reactions from fans and experts alike. Some were skeptical about Mathews' ability to perform at the highest level, given his recent struggles with injuries. Others were thrilled to see their favorite player back in action, hoping that he would rediscover his old form. As the World Cup approached, Mathews worked tirelessly on his fitness and game. He knew that this was his opportunity to silence his critics and prove that he still had what it takes to compete at the highest level. The team rallied around their captain, determined to make a mark in the tournament. When the World Cup finally arrived, Mathews showed glimpses of his old self. He played some crucial innings, anchoring the batting order and guiding the team to victory on multiple occasions. His bowling skills were also on display, as he picked up crucial wickets at crucial moments. Under Mathews' leadership, Sri Lanka exceeded expectations and made it to the knockout stages of the World Cup. The team's performance was a testament to Mathews' leadership skills and his ability to bring out the best in his players. He was praised for his tactical acumen and his ability to stay calm under pressure. Although Sri Lanka did not win the World Cup, Mathews' performance was a reminder of his class and his importance to the team. He proved that age and injuries were not barriers to success, and that experience and determination can trump all odds. As Mathews walked off the field after the World Cup, he knew that he had given his all to the team. He had proved his doubters wrong and had once again established himself as a key player in the Sri Lankan setup. Whether he continues to play or decides to retire on a high, Mathews' contribution to Sri Lankan cricket will always be remembered and cherished.