Home
Former Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 23, confirming that his team's first Test of the two-match series against Bangladesh next month will be his final appearance in the longest format of the game. The star all-rounder took his social media to bid adieu to Tests.
Sri Lanka are scheduled to play a two-Test match series against Bangladesh, which is scheduled to start from June 17. Mathews will play his farewell Test at the Galle International Stadium.
“The first Test match against Bangladesh in June will be my last red-ball appearance for my country. Whilst I bid adieu to the Test format, as discussed with selectors I will remain available for selection for the white ball format, if and when my country needs me,” he said.
“I believe this Test team is a talented side with many future and present greats playing the game. Now seems like the best time to make way for a younger player to take the mantle to shine for our nation.”
Matthews who made his Test debut against Pakistan in Galle in 2009 and went on to lead the team in England as Sri Lanka's captain (25 years, 279 days) in the format, four years later.
In 16 years of Test career, Matthews primarily as a batting all-rounder, amassing 8167 runs at an average of 44.62 in 118 matches. He smashed 16 centuries and 45 fifties and picked up 33 wickets.
“It is time for me to say goodbye to the most cherished format of the game, international Test Cricket! The past 17 years of playing cricket for Sri Lanka has been my highest honour and pride. Nothing can match that feeling of patriotism and servitude when one dans the National Jersey,” he added.
“I have given my everything to cricket and Cricket has given me everything in return and made me the person that I am today.
“I stand grateful to the game and thankful to the thousands of Sri Lanka Cricket fans who have been there for me throughout my career during my highest of highs and lowest of lows.”
ADVERTISEMENT
