Angelo Mathews, one of Sri Lanka’s most decorated cricketers, was honoured with a moving tribute as he took the field for his final Test match at the Galle International Stadium the very venue where he made his debut 16 years ago. As he stepped onto the field, his teammates formed a guard of honour, marking a touching farewell for a player who has been a pillar of Sri Lankan cricket for over a decade.
The 38-year-old all-rounder announced his retirement from Test cricket ahead of the first match against Bangladesh (Bangladesh tour of Sri Lanka, 2025), bringing down the curtain on a glittering red-ball career that has left an indelible mark on the game in Sri Lanka.
AN ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER IN WHITES
Mathews enters his final Test with 118 matches to his name, having scored 8,167 runs at an impressive average of 44.62. His stellar record includes 16 centuries and 45 half-centuries, making him Sri Lanka’s third-highest run-scorer in the format — trailing only legends Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene.
He is also among a select group of Sri Lankan players to have featured in over 100 Test matches, alongside icons such as Muttiah Muralitharan, Chaminda Vaas, Sanath Jayasuriya, Dimuth Karunaratne, Sangakkara, and Jayawardene.
DEFINING MOMENTS AND LEGACY
While the numbers are remarkable, it is the defining moments that truly highlight Mathews’ impact. His role in Sri Lanka’s historic Test series win in England in 2014 remains a career highlight, showcasing his ability to lead and deliver under pressure in tough overseas conditions.
Renowned for his composure, resilience, and ability to anchor the middle order, Mathews has been a mainstay in Sri Lanka’s lineup often stepping up during the team’s most challenging periods.
NEW BEGINNINGS FOR SRI LANKA AND THE WTC
Mathews’ farewell coincides with the start of a new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, with Sri Lanka looking to begin their campaign on a strong note under the leadership of Dhananjaya de Silva. The current Test series against Bangladesh marks the first contest of this fresh cycle, following South Africa's triumph over Australia to claim their first ICC trophy in 27 years.
BANGLADESH AIMING TO CHALLENGE THE SCRIPT
Led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh will be eager to spoil Sri Lanka’s farewell party with a strong performance. However, whatever the result, the spotlight in Galle remains firmly on Angelo Mathews, a true servant of Sri Lankan cricket, as he takes his final bow in the longest format of the game.
