Veteran Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews has played his final Test match, bringing an end to a glorious Test career. He had previously declared the match against Bangladesh in Galle as his farewell Test.
Sports News: Angelo Mathews, one of Sri Lankan cricket's most dependable all-rounders, concluded his 15-year Test career with the Galle Test. The match ended in a draw, denying Mathews a winning farewell, but his retirement moved cricket fans to tears. On the field, his teammates hoisted him onto their shoulders in a mark of respect, while spectators rose to their feet in a standing ovation.
A subdued final Test, yet Mathews remains etched in hearts
Mathews had already confirmed that the Galle Test would be his last. However, his performance in this historic match was unremarkable.
- In the first innings, he scored 39 runs before being dismissed by Mominul Haque.
- In the second innings, he managed only 8 runs, falling to Taijul Islam.
However, the scoreboard doesn't tell the full story of Mathews' legacy. Numbers alone cannot quantify his contribution to Sri Lankan cricket, especially during challenging times following the retirement of greats like Sangakkara, Jayawardene, and Dilshan.
A magnificent career: defined not by numbers, but by struggles overcome
Angelo Mathews' Test career was outstanding and inspiring.
- 119 Test Matches
- 8214 runs, Average: 44.40
- 16 centuries and 45 half-centuries
- Occasional bowling contributions, but his true role was as the backbone of the middle order.
He was not only a reliable batsman but also an exceptional captain and crisis solver. When the team faltered, Mathews stood as a rock.
Leading Sri Lanka to historic victories
Mathews' career witnessed several historic moments. He himself highlighted two series as significant achievements in interviews: the 2014 tour of England – Sri Lanka's first Test series win in England (1-0), with Mathews as captain; and the 2016 home series against Australia – a 3-0 victory that will be long remembered.
Mathews' leadership and performance played a crucial role in both series. This was a time when the Sri Lankan team was rebuilding with younger players. After the match concluded, the entire Sri Lankan team carried Mathews on their shoulders around the stadium. The spectators gave him a thunderous standing ovation.
Mathews' post-match comments
The love and support I've received since announcing my retirement has touched my heart. This journey wasn't easy; there were many ups and downs, but the fans and team's support always encouraged me. I'm grateful for this amazing journey. Now that Mathews has retired from Test cricket, it will be interesting to see if he continues his role in limited-overs cricket or ventures into cricket administration, coaching, or commentary.
