Sanga's push-up on Mathews could be elusive to bear

Angelo Mathews received a solid push from retired cricketer Kumar Sangakkara who called on the besieged Sri Lanka captain to hold back nothing as he takes forward a team sans big names in the aftermath of major developments.

It must have been the best advice that would have come the way of Mathews, but questions could also be raised on whether the Sri Lankan captain is in a position to press for victories while leading a team in which match-winners are hard to figure out.

"Angie (Angelo) you've got an amazing team, you've got an amazing future and I just hope you will work hard and enjoy this sport, this sport we only play for a short time.

It comes and goes, but don't be afraid. Take pride in what you do. Don't be afraid to lose when you are searching for a win and keep Sri Lanka and the flag flying high", Sangakkara told Mathews in his farewell speech at the P Sara Oval on Monday after Sri Lanka lost the second Test to India.

Sangakkara's exit left Mathews as the only hardcore player in the team who will have to shoulder not just leadership but ensure the batters revolve around him.

But Mathews while having to hold the batting together will also have to rally his team on the field to change its fortunes as far as results are concerned after slumping to series defeats against New Zealand (2-0) and Pakistan (2-1) over the past eight months and currently struggling to turn the tide against India in a three-match series that is currently tied at 1-1.

The absence of players with Test potential is also likely to worry not just Mathews and the team but also the Sri Lankan establishment which has failed to sustain the traditional format of the game that has been projected in the recalling of 30-year old Upul Tharanga to replace Sangakkara and a limited overs player in Kusal Perera to cover up for 34-year old Jehan Mubarak who was recalled and then dropped after making scores of 0, 49, 22. 0 in his last four innings.

Hot on the heals of the Indian series will be a tour by the West Indies who will play Sri Lanka in two Tests and five ODIs starting in the first week of October.

Sangakkara, although no more part of the team, is likely to play a behind-the-curtain role which could also re-assure Mathews in his eagerness to take forward a depleted and ageing side.

"My innings has ended. I won't play international cricket again. But I'll come with you (fans) to Khettarama, to Galle, to the Tamil Union and to SSC to watch the young cricketers play", Sangakkara said while turning his attention to Sri Lankan team supporters who loudly acknowledged his intentions.

By that remark it could mean that Sangakkara will look to channel his focus on encouraging young players who are searching for role models on the sidelines.