End of an Era: Angelo Mathews Bows Out in Emotional Farewell at Galle

Former Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews has bid an emotional farewell to Test cricket in the ongoing series opener against Bangladesh at Galle. The veteran all-rounder announced that this would be his final Test, bringing an illustrious 16-year international career to a close.

Mathews was honored by his teammates with a poignant guard of honour as he stepped onto the field for his 119th and last Test. Both sides of the Sri Lankan team lined up with raised bats to celebrate Mathews’ remarkable contribution to Sri Lankan cricket. Fans and commentators alike took to social media to share their appreciation for the champion cricketer, who became the third-highest run-getter for Sri Lanka in Tests, amassing 8,167 runs in 118 matches before this farewell fixture, with an impressive average of 44.62 and 16 centuries[2][3][4].

Mathews’ legacy places him only behind legends Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene in Sri Lanka’s all-time Test run-scorers’ list. His influence as a reliable middle-order batsman and a dependable medium-pace bowler has been instrumental for Sri Lanka across formats.

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma also paid tribute to Mathews, calling him a “true servant of the game.” Sharma’s message highlighted the respect and admiration Mathews has earned across the cricketing world[1].

As the cricketing community bids adieu to one of Sri Lanka’s finest, Angelo Mathews leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, consistency, and sportsmanship—qualities that have made him a beloved figure among fans in India and globally.