(Photo: Getty Images)
Angelo Mathews has thanked those who have supported him throughout his captaincy after revealing he was relinquishing the role so a ‘fresh’ approach could be taken.
A Sri Lanka captain for four years, Mathews’ time in charge comes to an end shortly after his team’s 3-2 ODI series defeat to Zimbabwe on home soil – a first ever loss against a nation clinging on to its ICC Full Member status.
Upon reflection, Mathews vowed he has ‘no regrets’. Will Sri Lanka improve following his departure? Have your say and visit FanBet for the best cricket betting sites.
“I am leaving with a heavy heart,” the 30-year-old said.
“But no regrets. I have had an outstanding four years as captain. I have been accused of various things by people, but I am telling you that I have always been honest and given 100 percent. I believe in karma.
“After the loss I had a deep think about it. No doubt it was a bitter pill to swallow as we didn’t expect it. I was very, very disappointed because I set myself and the team high standards. My personal opinion was that we needed a change.
Governing body Sri Lanka Cricket was briefly left in the lurch with their expectations being Mathews to go on to captain the national side at the 2019 World Cup, but they have reacted quickly to appoint Dinesh Chandimal as Test captain; Upul Tharanga as skipper in shorter formats.
Mathews commented: “I had got great support no doubt. But I think the time is right to go. Let some fresh thinking come in. I wanted to step down a year ago as well. But at that point there was no one to take over. Now I feel that there are candidates who can take over the captaincy and who are ready for the job. No point in just hanging around in the job.”
