'I can improve further' - Angelo Mathews shows determinaion following excellent Dambulla outing

Star Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews showcased a noteworthy performance in the second T20I against Afghanistan at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium on February 19, which the hosts won by 72 runs. It marked his finest knock since rejoining the T20I team a few weeks ago. Despite struggling early, he soon took control of the game after coming to bat at No. 7 in the 15th over. In the 19th over of the first innings, he hit three sixes in a row off Afghanistan's Azmatullah Omarzai and went on to finish with an unbeaten 42 from 22 deliveries, having hammered four sixes and two fours overall. 

Mathews had also stitched a crucial 66-run partnership with Sadeera Samarawickrama for the fifth wicket. Reflecting on his partnership with the wicketkeeper-batter, Mathews opened up how they had intended to steady their innings. 

Also read: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, 3rd T20I Match Preview

"The plan was for Sadeera Samarawickrama to bat deep so that I could bat with freedom. I struggled in the first ten to 15 balls. Every ball went to the fielder when I hit it initially. But I knew I could clear the boundary. The way Sadeera was going I knew I could play my shots. I can improve further if I can get singles and twos in the first couple of deliveries," Mathews was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

The 36-year-old continued by saying that he has been instructed to bowl to maintain the team's balance ever since Sri Lanka's series against Zimbabwe. He added that he was prepared to bowl at any time. He also opened up about his conversation with the selectors. In addition, he also excelled with the ball, dismissing Afghanistan openers Hazratullah Zazai and Ibrahim Zadran and finishing with outstanding figures of 2/9.

"Since the Zimbabwe series, I was told to bowl to help the balance of the side. At any moment I am ready to bowl. Selectors spoke to me too, and we had a decent chat. I am willing to give my 100%. I am enjoying my cricket, and want to do my best for the team," he added.

Also read: Who is Azmatullah Omarzai? Everything you need to know about the talented Afghanistan all-rounder