England vs Sri Lanka: Angelo Mathews goes angry over ball-change controversy

A controversy erupted during the first Test of the ongoing series between England and Sri Lanka, centering on a contentious ball-change decision that many viewed as unfair. In the second innings, England opted for a new ball, a decision that shifted the momentum of the game in their favor. This strategic move proved pivotal, as it allowed England to gain a crucial advantage and make a significant comeback. The decision to change the ball sparked frustration, particularly from veteran Sri Lankan batsman Angelo Mathews. At the time, the 37-year-old Mathews was well-set at 59 runs and was partnered with Kamindu Mendis. The introduction of the new ball by England had a dramatic impact on the game. Just ten overs after the ball change, Mathews was dismissed, marking a turning point in the innings.

The timing of the ball change and its impact on Mathews' dismissal fueled discontent among Sri Lankan supporters and players. Many felt that the decision, which allowed England to capitalize on the fresh ball's conditions, was unjust and had a disproportionate effect on the match. The controversy added an extra layer of tension to the already competitive Test series, highlighting the significant influence of umpiring decisions on the outcome of crucial moments in cricket.

Angelo Mathews criticized the decision to change the ball, asserting that England was running out of strategies until the ball switch occurred. He claimed that the ball selected was significantly harder than the previous one, suggesting that the umpires had struggled to find a suitable replacement. Mathews felt that this new, harder ball provided a distinct advantage to the England pacers, enabling them to reassert control over the game.

The impact of the new ball was evident as it revitalized the England bowlers, who capitalized on the fresh conditions to shift the momentum in their favor. The effectiveness of the ball change played a crucial role in England’s comeback and eventual victory. Mathews' frustration reflected a broader sentiment that the timing and conditions of the ball change were unfairly advantageous to the home team, affecting the balance of the match and contributing significantly to England’s success.

"It was unfortunate, to be honest. Yesterday we were sitting pretty until the ball was changed, I think it could be unfair for batters on both teams, because the batters want to get rid of the hard, shiny ball,” Sri Lanka's senior cricketer Angelo Mathews told Test Match Special before the start of day 4. 

"Once the ball was changed, I think it changed the entire momentum of the game. It started swinging both ways, it started nipping back in, so it was really difficult. The batters are waiting to get rid of the hardness of the ball, and it's unfortunate that the ball was changed and it started swinging and it changed the whole complexion of the game,” he added.  

Angelo Mathews expressed his frustration by revealing that he was uncertain about the age of the ball used after the change. He highlighted the lack of transparency regarding how long the replacement ball had been in play, which contributed to his concerns about fairness. Mathews called for a stringent revision of the rules governing ball changes, emphasizing the need for clear and consistent guidelines to prevent similar situations in the future. His appeal aimed to ensure that such contentious decisions are regulated more effectively, safeguarding the integrity of the game and providing all teams with a level playing field.

"I don't know which year the balls were, you've got to have a set of rules where you determine how the ball is going to be changed... I really don't know, but it can be really disadvantageous for the batters,” Mathews concluded.