Over the years,Sri Lanka has produced some incredible players like Chaminda Vaas,Arjuna Ranatunga and Sanath Jayasuriya.Seeing the rise of Angelo Mathews,I felt he is another great talent that the island country has given rise to.Not only does this youngster have the ability,but also the temperament and hunger to perform at the big stage.Anyone and everyone who has seen Mathews have liked him.
Mathews started getting noticed at a very early age of 16 when he made it to SL Under-19 team and was consistent ever since.He went on to captain the U-19 team and after a successful first class season got selected for the SL-A side.He has over and over again shown that he does not only have capabilities with the bat,but can also bowl really well.He has been successful opening the bowling as well as being 1st or 2nd change bowler.To add to this,he is an good athlete around the field.
Having seen him play some crucial knocks late in the order under pressure,I could not digest the fact that he is just 23.Everytime the Lankans seem to be in trouble,he is their to save the day or atleast give a fight.At this young age,he is among the world's best allrounders in limited overs Cricket.Even in the IPL 3,his performances were crucial for his team as he won the MOM awards in his team's first two matches.Everytime he steps on the field,he comes up with a responsible performance and impresses one and all.
One thing about Mathews' game is still questionable and that is his ability as a test bowler.In the limited overs format,he has shown good variety with ability to move the ball around,slower bouncers and change of lengths,but this might not be enough for the ultimate version of the game.His record so far as a test bowler isn't all that impressive either,but he has played just seven matches,so its probably a little early to draw conclusions.I strongly feel if Mathews does well as a test bowler,he is going to be a key member in the Sri Lankan team for the next ten years or maybe even more.
As a cricket fan,I would definitely want him to stay around the international scene because talents like him don't show up often.In one of his interviews,I read that he wants to be like Sir Garry Sobers.I think he will be happy if he gets anywhere near him,but,if at all he ends up to reach that level is all upto him.
He is a fine striker of the ball but needs to improve his bowling. Just deceptive slower deliveries won't help him in test cricket.
ReplyDeleteExactly my point.
ReplyDelete:)