Sri Lanka: Angelo Mathews reappointed as limited-overs captain
What's the story
All-rounder Angelo Mathews has been reappointed as Sri Lanka's limited-overs captain, less than 6 months after stepping down from the post. Sri Lankan cricket has been left in turmoil after their poor run and string of losses. The Islander have changed their captain 4 times in the last 12 months. Here are the details.
Details
Mathews appointed as ODI, T20 captain
The 30-year old all-rounder quit after Sri Lanka's shock defeat to Zimbabwe in July at home. Since then the board has experimented with the limited overs captaincy with as many as 5 people taking over the job. SLC is now hoping Angelo Mathews will steady the ship once again and lead them into the 2019 World Cup or perhaps even beyond that.
Why?
Sri Lanka go for the tried and tested
In ODI cricket Sri Lanka have had five different captains just in 2017. After Mathews decided to step down from the post in July, Upul Tharanga was handed the job. Under the dashing left-hander Sri Lanka suffered three 5-0 whitewashes and then Thisara Perera was handed over the responsibilities. Chamara Kapugedera and Lasith Malinga also captained the side in Tharanga's absence.
Can he inspire SL?
Can Mathews revive Sri Lanka's fortunes
Since Mathews stepped down as the captain, Sri Lanka have been sailing in uncertain waters and have been dismal in limited overs cricket. Out of the 29 ODIs in 2017 they have lost 23, while in T20Is they have suffered defeats in 10 out of the 15 matches. This seemed to be the major concern for the Sri Lankan cricket board.
Struggle to stay fit
Injury prone Mathews reinstated as skipper
However, another cause for concern is Angelo Mathew's struggle to stay fit. The all-rounder missed 20 out of the 39 ODIs Sri Lanka played in the last 18 months, thanks to a series of leg and muscle injuries. His most recent injury was the hamstring strain against India in the T20Is. Yet Sri Lanka wants the injury-prone man to lead them.