ENG Vs SL: Angelo Mathews Shines On Return To Playing XI, Scalps Two Key Wickets

The defending champions entered the match in a precarious position, sitting at the 8th spot in the points table of the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023.

Angelo Matthews in action.

Source : Getty

In a crucial ICC Men's World Cup 2023 match on Thursday, October 26, Sri Lanka made two significant changes to their lineup as they faced the defending champions, England. Angelo Matthews returned to Sri Lanka's playing XI after a three-month absence, aiming to provide veteran leadership and strengthen the batting order.

England's captain, Jos Buttler, won the toss and elected to bat against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The defending champions entered the match in a precarious position, sitting at the 8th spot in the points table of the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023.

"Pitch is good and we were looking to bat first as well. I am enjoying the captaincy. There are players who are advising me and supporting me. The last match we did well with bat and ball. Very important game, we need a good start with the ball and if we get that then we can manage the game. He (Mathews) comes into the team, the most experienced guy in the team and hopefully, he does well today. Angelo and Kumara are playing," commented Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis after the toss.

Sri Lanka had previously surprised England by defeating them in the 2019 World Cup match at Headingley. Now, as the two teams clashed at the Chinnaswamy, the Sri Lankan side sought inspiration from one of the key figures in that memorable victory - Angelo Mathews.

England And Sri Lanka In Must-Win Situation

In a manner reminiscent of his 2019 performance, Angelo Mathews showcased his experience by providing Sri Lanka with a crucial breakthrough, dismissing Dawid Malan, who was in good form having hit six boundaries. Mathews later claimed the wicket of Moeen Ali, further tightening the screws on the England team. After 26 overs, England found themselves at 123 for 7 wickets. It is also worth noting that the team that loses in the contest between England and Sri Lanka will most likely be out of contention for a spot in the semi-finals, making it a must-win match for both England and Sri Lanka.

Just a week ago, Mathews was included as a reserve player, and on Tuesday, he was officially added to the team roster, replacing Matheesha Pathirana.