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Angelo Mathews Announces Retirement from Test Cricket Ahead of Galle Farewell
Sri Lankan Veteran to Conclude Iconic Test Career Against Bangladesh
Angelo Mathews, one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated cricketers, has officially announced that he will retire from Test cricket after the opening Test against Bangladesh, set to begin on June 17 at the Galle International Stadium. Mathews, who turns 38 just days before the match, has chosen to end his red-ball career at the very venue where it all began in July 2009. Although he is stepping away from Tests, Mathews remains available for white-ball formats, reaffirming his dedication to Sri Lankan cricket.
“It is time for me to say goodbye to the most cherished format of the game, international Test Cricket!” wrote Mathews in a heartfelt social media statement. “I have given everything to cricket and cricket has given me everything in return.”
A Prolific Career Comes Full Circle
Test Journey from Debut to Legacy
Mathews’ Test journey has been nothing short of illustrious. Over a span of nearly 15 years, he has represented Sri Lanka in 118 Tests and is set to make his 119th appearance in his final outing. A former Test captain, Mathews led the side in 34 matches and played a crucial role in several memorable victories. With 8,167 runs under his belt at an average of 44.62, including 16 centuries and a career-best unbeaten 200, he stands as Sri Lanka’s third-highest run-scorer in Tests—trailing only behind legends Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene.
Apart from his batting prowess, Mathews has contributed with the ball as well, taking 33 wickets in his career. His dual skills made him one of the most dependable all-rounders of his era.
Peak Years and Notable Performances
Mathews enjoyed a purple patch from 2013 to 2015, averaging 74.60, 77.33, and 42.25 in consecutive years. During this time, he registered six hundreds and twelve half-centuries. His unforgettable 160 in the second innings at Headingley against England is still regarded as one of his finest knocks, cementing his reputation as a resilient match-winner.
Even in the latter stages of his career, Mathews continued to perform at the highest level. He averaged over 50 in both 2022 and 2023, notching four more centuries, with his last ton coming against Afghanistan in 2024. His consistency highlighted not only his skill but also his unwavering commitment to the national team.
The Final Bow: Galle Test Against Bangladesh
Full Circle at the Same Venue
The Galle Test against Bangladesh offers a poetic end to Mathews’ Test career. The all-rounder made his debut at this very ground in 2009 and will now conclude his journey here in front of home fans. As the team prepares for the match, there is no doubt that it will be an emotional occasion for both the player and the cricketing fraternity.
“I believe this Test team is a talented side with many future and present greats. Now seems like the best time to make way for a younger player to take the mantle to shine for our nation,” Mathews added.
Learn more about Angelo Mathews’ impact on Sri Lankan cricket.
Gratitude and Farewell
In his retirement message, Mathews expressed deep gratitude to his teammates, coaches, fans, and family. He acknowledged the unwavering support he received through both highs and lows.
“A chapter ends but the love for the game will always remain,” he concluded.
As Sri Lanka faces Bangladesh in the upcoming series, the cricketing world will turn its attention to Galle, where one of the modern greats of the game will bid farewell to the format he so dearly loved.
Check out our tribute to Kumar Sangakkara’s legendary Test career.
