The first Test of the Sri Lanka–Bangladesh Test series began today (17th) at the Galle International Cricket Stadium. This match is especially significant as it marks the final Test appearance of Angelo Mathews, a former Sri Lanka captain and a renowned all-format cricketer.

Prior to the start of the match, Sri Lanka Cricket organized a brief ceremony to pay tribute to Mathews. His wife, children, and parents attended the occasion. During the ceremony, Sri Lanka Cricket CEO Ashley de Silva and Vice President Jayantha Dharmadasa presented a commemorative gift to Mathews.

Following the tribute, Mathews entered the field at Galle to take up fielding duties, welcomed with a guard of honor from his fellow players.

Speaking at the media briefing held ahead of the first Test, Mathews said:

“I played my first Test match in 2009 against Pakistan at this very venue – the Galle International Stadium. I also played my 100th Test here. So, after this Test against Bangladesh at Galle, I will be retiring from international Test cricket. One of the main reasons behind my decision is the lack of upcoming Test matches and the long wait—sometimes nearly a year—for a Test series. My retirement is also a chance for another player to step up.”

The Sri Lanka–Bangladesh Test that began yesterday at Galle is Mathews' 119th international Test. So far, he has scored 8,167 Test runs, including 16 centuries and 45 half-centuries. As a bowler, he has taken 33 wickets and contributed in 77 catches during his Test career.