In an unexpected move, Sri Lanka selectors have dropped Angelo Mathews from the upcoming England series, Cricket Age reliably learns. On Sunday, Mathews was removed as shorter formats captain after horrendous Asia Cup campaign, where team knocked out with heavy defeats against Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
England to play five ODIs, one off T20 and three tests during their tour of Sri Lanka. First ODI to be played Dambula on October 10.
According to sources, today morning Sri Lanka head coach Chandika Hathurasingha had a long discussion with Mathews at High Performance center at Khetteraama. During the meeting, Hathurusingha conveyed him the selectors message.
Dropping of Mathews is a bit surprising, given the fact that as a batsman he averages 59 in ODI cricket in last two years. Moreover, he was in fine batting form during the recently concluded home series against South Africa, where he was the top run scorer from both sides.
On Sunday, few hours after being sacked, Mathews came out with a strong response and raised several questions against Hathurusingha and selectors.
“I am Willing to take part of the blame but at the same time, feel betrayed and let down if the blame is solely put on me. As you know all decisions are taken through a mutual understanding with selectors and the head coach. And though I do not agree with the reasoning that the losses should be accrued single handed to the captaincy. I however eagerly and wholeheartedly respect the request of the selection committee and the head coach in asking me to step down and to do so with immediate effect” Mathews had said in his statement.
