In what can be called the recent developments of cricket, Angelo Matthews has been dropped from Sri Lanka’s squad ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup Qualifier 2023. The veteran player was all set to fly to Zimbabwe to participate in the event however, his stint has been cut short.

Matthews was called back for the New Zealand ODI series earlier this year after missing out on the field for around two years. Despite the comeback, he could not render as expected following the recent scores of 18, 0, and 12. For that reason, he was dropped from the line-up ahead of the second ODI versus Afghanistan.

Sadeera Samarawickwarma was called as Matthew’s replacement and made an impact with 44 in the second ODI. Hence, he was retained for the next match but did not get to bat. 

Notably, recalling Matthews after two years ahead of the World Cup Qualifiers was subjected to ‘add experience’ in Sri Lanka’s squad. However, his below-par performances have given him a big blow once again.

Alongside Matthews, Dimuth Karunratne was also called back and his retention for the Qualifiers is solid proof that he is on the selectors’ minds. Karunaratne’s recent performances, unlike those of Matthews, have been favouring him including back-to-back fifties since his return to the ODI crew.

The rest of the squad is also filled with a lot of surprises as it comprises: Dasun Shanaka (capt), Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushan Hemantha, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Dushmantha Chameera, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana

It is pertinent to mention that Sri Lanka will kick off their Qualifiers journey on June 19th against the United Arab Emirates at Bulawayo. Before that, they will take part in three warm-up matches.