Angelo Mathews holds 'agendas' responsible for white-ball exile

Angelo Mathews, in his first T20I appearance in nearly three years, didn't just showcase his cricketing ability; he also took a subtle dig at the former selection panel, led by Pramodya Wickramasinghe, suggesting their personal "agendas." The recently appointed selection committee, spearheaded by Upul Tharanga, evidently has Mathews in their plans for the T20 World Cup, as confirmed by his impactful performance in the first T20I since March 2021. 

The veteran all-rounder played a pivotal role in a nail-biting last-ball victory against Zimbabwe as he contributed 46 off 38 balls after impressively opening the bowling and conceded 13 runs in his two overs. The 36-year-old feels his prolonged absence from white-ball cricket was unjustified.

"In the last two Lanka Premier League (LPL) seasons I batted and bowled well, but unfortunately I wasn't selected for the T20 World Cups, and I wasn't given reasons for that. If you take decisions that are driven by agendas, these kinds of things can happen - we haven't even qualified for the Champions Trophy,” Mathews said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

“But one thing I believe is that if you train and play wholeheartedly, you can create an environment for yourself where you can perform. I kept my efforts up over the last couple of years. I think I can play for a little while longer," he added.

Mathews dissecting through the role of batter, bowler

Mathews' bowling prowess has been a topic of discussion, especially considering his significant role in Sri Lanka's top white-ball teams from 2007 to 2014. Frequently used in the powerplay during T20Is, injuries over the years have either limited his bowling or compelled him to focus solely on batting, depending on the perspective. Despite being a vital part of the bowling attack, his journey has been marred by a series of setbacks and prompted questions about his dual role as a batter and bowler.

"The communication with me and the new selectors is quite clear. They asked me what my plans were for the future and [told me] their plans as well. We had a very good discussion. They said that I'm in their plans for the T20 World Cup, and if I could bowl a few overs. I said: 'Absolutely - if I can help the team in any way,” Mathews added.

"I've been bowling in the LPL as well, and you saw me bowling in the [domestic] one-dayers as well recently. If I can bowl a few overs that helps the balance of the team and the captain can decide whether he wants to play an extra batter or a bowler," he concluded.