Angelo Mathews ruled out of last ODI with calf tear

Sri Lanka’s hopes of securing a win whilst playing for pride in the final ODI of the series suffered a huge setback as skipper Angelo Mathews was ruled out of action with a calf strain. With the Sri Lankan selectors and their slim options fading, it remains unclear who will replace the vanquished skipper. Moreover, it is also unclear when Angelo Mathews will be back in action next.

As for the leadership role, the Lankans have confirmed that Dinesh Chandimal is expected to take charge of the side and deputize for the injured skipper for the fifth and final One-Day International of the series.

Mathews’ injury simply goes on to signify the amount of cricket and the stress endured whilst playing the sport and the schedule of matches closely packed involving closely spaced tours as well as fatigue-based injuries for different players in the side. Steve Smith, the Australia skipper also pulled out of the series citing fatigue. However, the Australia selectors bypassed his deputy Aaron Finch and handed the reins of captaincy to David Warner instead.

Reports close to the Sri Lankan camp goon to suggest that Angelo mathews suffered an injury in the e 27th over of Sri Lanka’s innings in the fourth ODI on Wednesday (August 31). He left the field retired hurt while on 28, but returned to bat towards the end of Sri Lanka’s innings and added 12 more runs. Although Mathews has not yet undergone scans for his troublesome calf, the Sri Lankan management have gone on to confirm his absence from the side.

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At the moment, it seems as though the Lankan selectors are in a conundrum to find a replacement for Mathews. Although the likes of Angelo Perera and Lakshan Sandakan are in the squad, the selectors would certainly prefer a more seasoned and experienced player to replace the skipper.

On the list for the final Test would be Dasun Shanaka, Lahiru Thirimanne, Upul Tharanga, and perhaps even Sekkugge Prasanna. All of these players can prove to be potential replacements for Mathews.