Angelo Mathews says veterans Dilshan, Sangakkara, and Jayawardene still crucial to SL team

Colombo: Angelo Mathews, who was recently appointed Sri Lanka``s captain, has claimed the experienced trio of Kumar Sangakkara, Tillakaratne Dilshan and Mahela Jayawardene is still pivotal to team``s success, as they always help talented youngsters emerge into mature individuals.

In exclusive interview with Islandcricket, Mathew said: "In today``s team, we have a terrific blend of youth as well as experience. With you obviously as the young leader, Sri Lanka have the right make-up to go a long way." "I think it``s very important to have a combination of young players as well as veterans in a team. I remember when I first made my debut, seniors such as Mahela, Sangakkara, Murali, Dilshan, Vaas and Jayasuriya were there to support me," he added. "This is important. When you make your debut for the national team, you are under intense pressure. The experienced players always spoke to us and helped us correct our mistakes," he said. "Therefore, it is important to have this mix in our team. Even today, the trio of Sangakkara, Jayawardena and Dilshan teach a lot of things to the youngsters. Moving forward as a team, their advice is always handy and is a great strength to our team," he concluded. ANI