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Sri Lanka's veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews concluded his illustrious Test cricket career as the opening match of the two-game series between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh culminated in a draw in Galle on June 21. This Test marked his final appearance in the longest format of the game.
Angelo Mathews retires from Test cricket
Reflecting on his decision, Angelo Mathews expressed that he had been overwhelmed by the outpouring of affection and support he received following his announcement to retire from Test cricket.
“Since I announced my retirement, I can’t believe the love I have received. Ever so grateful to all those who supported me. It wasn’t an easy journey – lots of ups and downs. It’s time for the younger players to take the baton and take SL cricket forward. To win against England in England and whitewashing Australia in Sri Lanka. I am thankful to all the teammates, coaches and the fans," Angelo Mathews said after the match.
In his final Test match, Angelo Mathews contributed 39 runs from 69 deliveries in the first innings. However, in his second and last innings, he was dismissed for just eight runs after battling for 45 balls. In a touching moment after his dismissal in the second innings, Mathews received a guard of honour from the Bangladeshi players as he made his way back to the pavilion for the final time in his Test career.
Mathews, whose Test journey began at the same Galle International Stadium against Pakistan in 2009, has been an integral part of Sri Lankan cricket for over 15 years. He has excelled as both a reliable batsman and a useful bowler, often providing crucial breakthroughs.
Statistically, Mathews stands as one of Sri Lanka's greatest Test batsmen, having accumulated 8214 runs in 119 matches. He is only surpassed in Test runs by the legendary Kumar Sangakkara (12,400) and Mahela Jayawardena (11,814). He also contributed with the ball, taking 33 Test wickets. Notably, he holds the second-highest number of runs scored at the Galle International Stadium, amassing 2206 runs in 33 Test matches at this venue. Adding to his achievements, Mathews became the youngest Sri Lankan to captain the Test team when he was appointed to the role for the first time in 2013.
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