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Sri Lankan cricket stalwart Angelo Mathews has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, drawing the curtain on an illustrious red-ball career that spanned nearly a decade and a half.
The first Test against Bangladesh in June will mark the 37-year-old’s final appearance in whites for Sri Lanka.
Mathews shared the news via an emotional statement on social media, confirming his decision to step away from the format he called the “most cherished” of his career.
“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,” he wrote.
“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.”
While bowing out of the longest format, Angelo Mathews made it clear that he’s still available for selection in ODIs and T20Is “if and when my country needs me.”
His decision comes amid Sri Lanka’s sparse red-ball calendar—Mathews would likely have had to wait until May 2026 for another Test. That, coupled with his approaching 38th birthday, made it the right time to call it quits.
Since making his Test debut in 2009, Mathews has been a consistent presence for Sri Lanka. In 119 Tests, he has scored 8,167 runs at an average of 44.62, placing him third on the country’s all-time list behind only Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene.
His 16 centuries include some iconic knocks, none more famous than his match-defining 160 at Headingley in 2014, a win that remains one of Sri Lanka’s greatest away triumphs.
Though often used sparingly as a bowler, Mathews still chipped in with 33 wickets, often breaking stubborn partnerships or chipping in when needed.
His peak years came between 2013 and 2015, when he scored 2,378 runs at an average of 59.45, largely batting in the lower middle order.
Mathews’ farewell message oozed grace and humility. He thanked the fans, teammates, and the game itself, acknowledging the highs and lows of his journey.
“I have given my everything to cricket and cricket has given me everything in return. I stand grateful to the game and thankful to the thousands of Sri Lanka fans who have supported me throughout my career.”
“I have given my everything to cricket and Cricket has given me everything in return and made me the person that I am today,” he stated.
“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.”
While his time in whites is coming to an end, Angelo Mathews is not completely walking away. He remains open to wearing the Sri Lankan jersey in ODIs and T20Is, should the team call upon his experience and class.
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