Angelo Mathews Honored by Teammates in Emotional Farewell Test vs Bangladesh

Angelo Mathews was given a memorable farewell as he took the field for the final time in Test cricket during Sri Lanka’s opening Test match against Bangladesh at the Galle International Stadium. This historic venue, where he made his debut 16 years ago, became the backdrop for the emotional end to a red-ball career that has left an indelible mark on Sri Lankan cricket.

Mathews, finishes as Sri Lanka’s third-highest run-getter in the format, behind only the legendary Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene, both of whom shaped the golden era of Sri Lankan cricket

Match Details

• Fixture: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh
• Format: Test Match
• Venue: Galle International Stadium
• Occasion: Angelo Mathews Farewell Test
• Matches Played (Tests): 118
• Total Test Runs: 8167
• Test Centuries: 16
• Batting Average: 44.62
• Sri Lanka Test Rank: 3rd All-Time Leading Run Scorer
• Test Debut Year: 2009
• Retirement Announced: 2025 (Before Bangladesh Test)
• World Test Championship: 2025–2027 Cycle Opening Match

Angelo Mathews Honoured with Guard of Honour in Farewell Test

Before play began on Day 1, the Sri Lankan team formed a guard of honour for Mathews as he stepped onto the field, symbolising the deep respect he has earned over his illustrious career. The fans at Galle greeted him with thunderous applause, recognising his immense contribution to Sri Lankan cricket.

Mathews is Sri Lanka’s third-highest run-scorer in Test history, trailing only legends Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. His 8167 runs came at an average of 44.62, including 16 centuries and 45 fifties. More than the numbers, his innings were often defined by their significance—built under pressure and in crucial moments for the team.

He also joins an elite club of Sri Lankan cricketers to have played over 100 Tests, alongside names like Jayawardene, Sangakkara, Muttiah Muralitharan, Chaminda Vaas, Sanath Jayasuriya, and Dimuth Karunaratne.

Mathews’ Test Legacy: Runs, Milestones, and Match-Winning Memories

Angelo Mathews has been a pillar in Sri Lanka’s Test setup since his debut. His standout moment remains the 2014 Test series victory in England, where his leadership and batting masterclass sealed one of Sri Lanka’s greatest overseas triumphs. That tour cemented his status as a player who thrived under pressure and in foreign conditions.

Mathews’ ability to grind out long innings, coupled with his calm demeanour, made him the go-to man in the middle order. Beyond his batting, Mathews contributed with the ball and also served as captain during crucial transitions in Sri Lankan cricket.

As Sri Lanka embark on a new World Test Championship cycle under the captaincy of Dhananjaya de Silva, Mathews’ exit marks the end of an era. His wisdom and presence in the dressing room will be deeply missed by the younger generation of players.

This match against Bangladesh also kicks off the new cycle of the World Test Championship. The visitors, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, are determined to deliver a strong performance and spoil the farewell narrative. Regardless of the match outcome, the emotional significance at Galle belongs to Angelo Mathews, who closes the curtains on an illustrious Test career.

Angelo Mathews’ farewell Test is more than just the end of a stellar red-ball career—it’s the celebration of a player who consistently delivered when it mattered most. His dedication, leadership, and performance have earned him a legendary status in Sri Lankan cricket. As Sri Lanka transition into a new era, Mathews’ influence and example will continue to inspire the next generation.

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