Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews to Retire from Test Cricket After Bangladesh Match

Angelo Mathews, the outstanding all-rounder for Sri Lanka, confirmed on Friday that he is retiring from Test cricket. His final game in the format will be against Bangladesh in the first Test of the two-match series next month. Mathews used his official social media account to confirm that he was leaving the format.

He stated, "My dear friends and family, with a grateful heart and unforgettable memories - It is time for me to say goodbye to the most cherished format of the game, International Test Cricket! The past 17 years of playing cricket for Sri Lanka have been my highest honour and pride. Nothing can match that feeling of patriotism and servitude when one dons the National Jersey. I have given my everything to cricket, and Cricket has given me everything in return and made me the person that I am today."

Angelo added, "I stand grateful to the game and thankful to the thousands of Sri Lanka Cricket fans who have been there for me throughout my career during my highest of highs and lowest of lows. The first Test match against Bangladesh in June will be my last red-ball appearance for my country."

Angelo Mathews on social media:

pic.twitter.com/nqsnpkpekD

— Angelo Mathews (@Angelo69Mathews) May 23, 2025

One of the mainstays of Sri Lankan cricket, Mathews has amassed 8167 runs at an average of 44.62 in 118 games thus far. During his career, he crushed 16 hundreds and 45 fifties. Having played in 118 Test matches for Sri Lanka, Mathews has had an incredibly successful career and is one of their most decorated all-rounders. Despite having just 33 wickets in the format, he has shared the ball with cricketing greats like Rangana Herath and Muttiah Muralitharan. In addition, he led the team in 34 Test matches and was a rather good batsman, averaging an incredible 50.94.

His statement further read, "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, I believe this test team is a talented side with many future and present greats playing the game, Now seems like the best time to make way for a younger player to take the mantle to shine for our nation. I want to thank almighty GOD, my beloved parents, my beautiful wife and amazing children, along with my family and closest friends, who have collectively always believed in me, backed me and stood by me through and through."

The cricketer concluded with, "Furthermore, I wish to extend my special thanks and gratitude to Sri Lanka cricket and all the coaches for their support right throughout my career."

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