The cricketing world witnessed a heartfelt second on June 17, 2025, as Sri Lanka’s stalwart Angelo Mathews acquired a Guard of Honour from his teammates on the Galle Worldwide Stadium. This touching tribute marked his farewell Take a look at match throughout the first Take a look at of the Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh sequence, a contest that additionally kicks off the 2025-27 ICC World Take a look at Championship. Over a distinguished 16-year profession, Mathews has been a pillar of Sri Lankan cricket, and this particular second celebrated his immense contribution to the game.
A profession etched in excellence and loyalty
Mathews’ journey in Take a look at cricket started at the exact same floor the place he bid adieu, making the farewell all of the extra poignant. Since his debut in 2009, Mathews has been a logo of resilience and sophistication, amassing 8,167 runs in 119 Checks at a formidable common of 44.62. His tally of 16 centuries and 45 half-centuries locations him third on Sri Lanka’s all-time Take a look at run-scoring record, trailing solely legends Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. Past the numbers, Mathews’ potential to carry out constantly each at house and overseas—scoring practically half his runs exterior Sri Lanka—underscores his adaptability and talent throughout various situations.
Not only a prolific batter, Mathews has been a reliable all-rounder, contributing essential wickets and management all through his tenure. His 118 Take a look at appearances rank him fourth in Sri Lanka’s historical past, reflecting his longevity and health within the demanding format. His retirement from Take a look at cricket, introduced in Could 2025, marks the tip of an period, although he stays obtainable for white-ball codecs, persevering with to serve Sri Lankan cricket in different capacities.
Additionally WATCH: Rohit Sharma’s transferring message to Angelo Mathews forward of his farewell Take a look at
Angelo Mathews receives the Guard of Honour in Galle Take a look at
The Guard of Honour ceremony at Galle was a transferring spectacle, with gamers from the Colts Cricket Membership lifting their bats as Mathews walked onto the sphere. This gesture symbolized respect and gratitude for a participant who has been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s cricketing material. The timing of this tribute, throughout a high-stakes Take a look at sequence towards Bangladesh, highlights the esteem wherein Mathews is held by teammates, opponents, and followers alike.
Sri Lanka, captained by Dhananjaya de Silva, goals to leverage house situations and a mix of skilled and rising expertise to start out their World Take a look at Championship marketing campaign strongly. Bangladesh, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, arrives assured and desperate to problem the hosts on Galle’s spin-friendly pitches. Amid this aggressive ambiance, the main target stays on Mathews’ swish exit from Take a look at cricket—a celebration of his enduring legacy and affect on the sport.
Right here’s the video:
A guard of honour at Galle for Angelo Mathews, who bids adieu to the longest format along with his 119th and last Take a look at.#SLvBAN pic.twitter.com/ZdTJkNfznf
— FanCode (@FanCode) June 17, 2025
Additionally READ: SL vs BAN: Right here’s why Mehidy Hasan Miraz is just not enjoying the Galle Take a look at
