Mathews not in mix for next T20 World Cup

Veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews will no longer be considered as Sri Lanka build towards the next T20 World Cup in 2026 which they will host jointly with India.

Chief Selector Upul Tharanga confirming the 37-year-old was no longer in their plans said, “When we came in (as selectors) we spoke to Angie about playing in the past T20 World Cup, that was the plan,” Tharanga said. “But after the tournament we spoke again, and this time we told him he wasn’t in our plans for the next World Cup.”

“But during the brief time he was in the side after we brought him in, he played well. And in the LPL also, he did well as a finisher. But we need to look to the future. There’s a big gap to fill when it comes to an all-rounder in the side – we have about two-three new players in mind to slot into that role. We’ll give them an opportunity and get them ready for the next World Cup.” – (ST)