Angelo Mathews Receives Moving Tribute in Final Test
The Galle International Stadium stood still as Angelo Mathews walked out for his 119th and final Test match, this time not just as a player, but as a living legend of Sri Lankan cricket. On June 17, 2025, Mathews was welcomed onto the field by a guard of honour from his teammates, a gesture that underscored the immense respect and admiration he commands within the dressing room and among fans worldwide.
Sixteen years after making his Test debut at the same venue, Mathews returned to Galle to close a chapter that has defined Sri Lankan cricket for over a decade. The 38-year-old all-rounder, one of the most accomplished Test batters in the current lineup, announced his retirement from the format ahead of the ongoing first Test against Bangladesh, setting the stage for a heartfelt farewell.
Mathews’ Legacy: By the Numbers
Angelo Mathews finishes his Test career as Sri Lanka’s third-highest run-getter, behind only the legendary Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. With 8,167 runs at an impressive average of 44.62, including 16 centuries and 45 half-centuries, his numbers speak volumes about his consistency and longevity. He is also among the elite group of just seven Sri Lankan cricketers to have played over 100 Tests, joining the likes of Jayawardene, Sangakkara, Muttiah Muralitharan, Chaminda Vaas, Sanath Jayasuriya, and Dimuth Karunaratne.
Beyond the numbers, Mathews’ legacy is defined by his ability to absorb pressure and deliver in challenging conditions. He was at the heart of one of Sri Lanka’s greatest overseas triumphs—the 2014 Test series win in England—where his leadership and batting prowess shone brightly. His resilience and knack for playing long innings made him a mainstay in Sri Lanka’s middle order and a role model for aspiring cricketers.
The Farewell: A Guard of Honour and Emotional Moments
As Angelo Mathews walked onto the field for his final Test, his teammates formed two lines, lifting their bats in a touching tribute. The moment was captured on video and shared widely on social media, with fans and fellow cricketers paying their respects to one of Sri Lanka’s finest. The former captain, who led Sri Lanka in 34 Tests between 2014 and 2017, was visibly moved by the gesture, reflecting on a career that has been his “highest honour and pride”.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Angelo Mathews wrote:
“The past 17 years of playing cricket for Sri Lanka has been my highest honour and pride. I have given everything to cricket and cricket has given me everything in return and made me the person I am today. 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.”
A New Era for Sri Lanka: World Test Championship Begins
Angelo Mathews’ farewell coincides with the start of the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. The first Test against Bangladesh at Galle marks the beginning of Sri Lanka’s campaign in the 2025-27 WTC, with Dhananjaya de Silva leading a new-look side in pursuit of early points on home soil. The previous WTC cycle concluded just days earlier, with South Africa lifting the title for the first time after defeating Australia at Lord’s.
Sri Lanka missed out on the WTC final last time, but captain Dhananjaya de Silva is determined to make amends. “We had a big chance to get to the final but unfortunately we couldn’t do it,” he said. “As we start a new cycle, we know we have to win our home series. We need to pick up all those points. It’s a great opportunity to start this cycle strong, especially with a home series.”
Bangladesh’s Challenge: Looking to Spoil the Farewell
Bangladesh, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, arrived in Galle hoping to spoil Angelo Mathews’ farewell script with a strong showing of their own. The tourists won the toss and elected to bat first, expecting spin to play a major role as the match progressed. Mehidy Hasan Miraz was ruled out due to illness, but the visitors remained confident in their abilities.
For Sri Lanka, the match also marked the debut of spinner Tharindu Ratnayake and top-order batter Lahiru Udara, as the team looks to build for the future. However, the spotlight remained firmly on Mathews, whose final Test was a celebration of his contributions to Sri Lankan cricket.
The Road Ahead: Angelo Mathews’ Future
While Angelo Mathews bids farewell to Test cricket, he remains available for selection in the limited-overs format. In recent interviews, he expressed his desire to continue playing white-ball cricket and hopes to retire from that format at the next T20 World Cup, depending on his fitness and form. His commitment to the team and his willingness to mentor younger players have been hallmarks of his career.
Angelo Mathews’ Test Career: Key Highlights
- Tests Played: 119 (fourth-highest for Sri Lanka)
- Runs Scored: 8,167 (third-highest for Sri Lanka)
- Average: 44.62
- Centuries: 16
- Half-Centuries: 45
- Wickets: 33
- Captaincy: Led Sri Lanka in 34 Tests
- Milestone Moments: 2014 Test series win in England, multiple centuries in challenging overseas conditions
The Emotional Impact: Fans and Teammates React
Social media was abuzz with tributes to Angelo Mathews, as fans and former teammates shared memories of his grit, determination, and sportsmanship. The guard of honour at Galle was a fitting tribute to a player who has given his all for Sri Lankan cricket. His ability to inspire both on and off the field has left an indelible mark on the sport in his country.
The Match: A New Chapter for Sri Lanka
As Sri Lanka and Bangladesh battle it out at Galle, the match is more than just the start of a new WTC cycle—it is a celebration of Angelo Mathews’ remarkable career. Regardless of the result, the narrative at Galle will revolve around one of Sri Lanka’s finest taking his final bow.
Angelo Mathews’ Legacy: Beyond the Numbers
Angelo Mathews’ legacy is not just about runs and records. It is about resilience, leadership, and the ability to rise to the occasion when his team needed him most. His contributions to Sri Lankan cricket have been immense, and his farewell Test is a reminder of the impact one player can have on a nation’s sporting identity.
Looking Forward: Sri Lanka’s Next Generation
With Angelo Mathews stepping aside, Sri Lanka’s new generation of cricketers will look to build on his legacy. Captain Dhananjaya de Silva has emphasized the importance of starting the new WTC cycle strong, and the debut of young players like Ratnayake and Udara signals a new era for Sri Lankan cricket. The team will be hoping to draw inspiration from Mathews’ example as they chart their own path forward.
Final Thoughts: A Legend Bids Farewell
Angelo Mathews’ farewell Test is a moment of reflection for Sri Lankan cricket. His 8,167 runs, 119 Tests, and countless memorable performances have secured his place among the greats. As he walks off the field for the last time in whites, the cricketing world salutes a true legend—one who has given everything to the game and inspired millions along the way.
Credit:
Information and insights compiled from Hindustan Times, ESPNcricinfo, ICC, Wisden, Sportskeeda, and other reputable cricket news outlets.
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