Seasoned Sri Lanka all-rounder announces Test retirement

Former Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews took to social media on Friday, 23 May, to announce his retirement from Tests upon the conclusion of the first match against Bangladesh in Galle next month.

Mathews, who made his Test debut at the same venue against Pakistan in 2009, has been a cornerstone of Sri Lankan cricket for over 15 years, excelling as both an all-rounder and a leader.

Aggregating 8,167 in 118 matches, he is only behind Kumar Sangakkara (12,400) and Mahela Jayawardena (11,814) for most Test runs by a Sri Lankan. He also proved handy with the ball with 33 wickets to his name. He also has the second-most runs at Galle, with 2206 runs across 33 Test matches at the venue.

Some of Mathews' notable performances in the format include a brilliant 200* against Zimbabwe in 2020, 160 in Sri Lanka's win against England in the second innings at Headingley in 2014, which was preceded by an incredible bowling performance in the first innings as he secured figures of 4/44 and the Player of the Match award.

Mathews will have a chance to add to those runs and wickets in his 119th and final match in whites against Bangladesh next month.

He is also Sri Lanka’s third most successful Test captain, having led the side to 13 wins in 34 matches between 2013 and 2017.

Announcing his retirement via social media, Mathews said, "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 has 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.

"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."

While announcing his retirement, Mathews also confirmed that he will remain available for selection in the white-ball formats. His last appearance for Sri Lanka in limited-overs cricket came over a year ago, during their group-stage clash against New Zealand at the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.

Most Test runs for Sri Lanka