Veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews is saying goodbye to Test cricket, playing his final match in the two-Test series against Bangladesh in Galle starting 17th June 2025. And yes, this match will be more than just another game, it will be the marker of the end of an era. He has featured in 118 Tests and quotes it as a “dream run.”
According to ESPN Cricinfo, Mathews opened his heart that Galle holds a special place in his life, playing his 100th Test, and now wants to end his journey at the same venue.
[Update] Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews Bids Emotional Goodbye in Final Test
Angelo Mathews, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected cricketers, is ready to give his final, the 119th Test match at two-Test series against Bangladesh in Galle. Ahead of his retirement, Mathews came to the media and raised his voice that Sri Lanka is lacking Test cricket.
In 2025, Sri Lanka will be participating in four Tests only, which is the lowest number of Tests. He is concerned that Sri Lanka will be playing only even fewer than they did in the previous cycle meanwhile Australia are slated for 22 Tests, England 21 and India 18, for the upcoming cycle.
Mathews said: “I think it’s quite sad to be honest. I mean, the younger generation are urging for more Test cricket. Test cricket is obviously the pinnacle of cricket. We all should push for more Tests. These guys are so enthusiastic about Test cricket. I feel there has to be at least 10 matches in a year.”
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Further he explained the timing of his retirement was impacted by the lack of Tests scheduled at Sri Lanka. The main reason for his retirement in this Test was because Sri Lanka didn’t have any games coming up. After this match, he had to wait a long time for retirement.
However he is happy to retire playing at Galle. He said, “I played my 100th Test in Galle, so I thought I’d say goodbye in Galle.”
Further, he explained his retirement could be an opportunity for the newcomers whoever is going to replace him in the second game. Mathews believes Sri Lanka’s future is in good hands.
[Revealed] Fans’ & Teammates’ Reaction In Angelo Mathews’ Retirement
Since Mathews announced his retirement, social media has flooded with tributes and appreciation posts.
End of an era!
Thank you Angelo Davis Mathews, for the years of fight, flair and unforgettable memories.
From a promising youngster to a wonderful match winner to 3rd highest runscorer for 🇱🇰, we’ve seen all those from you.Go well at Galle. Happy retirement @Angelo69Mathews pic.twitter.com/3Lx5emeAEv
— Poornama🏏 (@iam_poor9) June 17, 2025
Coming to X, Indian Captain Rohit Sharma shared a heartfelt message to Mathews on his retirement. He congratulated for his fantastic Test career and wished him and the Sri Lanka team the very best. Also, cheered the battle with Mathews right from their U-19 days.
Here is the X Post
Rohit Sharma’s heartfelt message to Angelo Mathews on his retirement.🤍 pic.twitter.com/1zykzOVVuq
— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) June 17, 2025
Amit Mishra Takes On Angelo Mathews Retirement
Mathews retirement comes as an emotional rollercoaster to me. Undoubtedly, he has helped Sri Lanka cricket to reach the next level. And now with him saying bye to the Test game at Galle, it feels like a heart wrenching game to watch.
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