• Home
  • Who Said What
  • It Wasnt An Easy Angelo Mathews Gets Candid About Heartfelt Test Farewell

“It Wasn't An Easy...” Angelo Mathews Gets Candid About Heartfelt Test Farewell

Poulomi Chakraborty

Angelo Mathews' Words On His Retirement (Source: AP Photos)Angelo Mathews' Words On His Retirement (Source: AP Photos)

The first Test match between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka has ended in a draw, but the Sri Lankan side had a bigger heartbreak. Veteran Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews bid adieu to the longest format of cricket.

On the final day of his Test career, he looked back on his remarkable journey, expressing heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood by him along the way.

Mathews Reflects On His Glorious Test Career

Making his Test debut back in 2009 against Pakistan, Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews has hung up his boots from the longest format after the first Test against Bangladesh. On his final Test, he scored 47 runs. Despite the match ending on a draw, the cricket world gave a teary farewell to the veteran all-rounder.

As he drew the end line of his Test career, Mathews reflected on his glorious Test career. Filled with gratitude, he thanked everyone who had been a part of his story, cherishing the memories that shaped his legacy.

“Since I announced my retirement, I can't believe the love that I have received so far. I am certainly overwhelmed. Ever so grateful to all those who supported me right throughout. It wasn't an easy journey, there were a lot of ups and downs, happiness and sadness. But through it all I was able to do it because of the support that I have received,” he said.

As goodbyes are never easy, and Mathews felt the weight of the moment as he retired, urging the youngsters to carry the nation forward.

“Well, obviously. Retiring from the best format, the format that I loved playing. It's time for the younger players to take the baton and drive Sri Lanka through. We certainly have the young talent in the dressing room,” Mathews added.

Praises Bangladesh For Their Top Effort

Since the beginning of the Test match, the Bangladeshi batters have grabbed the attention. Najmul Hossain Shanto smashed tons in both innings, and Mushfiqur Rahim played an incredible knock of 163 runs. After the match ended, Mathews congratulated the Tigers. Along with that, he also hailed Pathum Nissanka as the opener played an exceptional knock of 187 runs in the first innings.

“I should congratulate Bangladesh, they've had a wonderful Test match. Mushi and Shanto batted brilliantly; they pushed us to the walls. Pathum Nissanka batted really well, he's certainly a talent to look out for in the future,” he said.

Unforgettable Moments That Will Forever Live In Mathews’ Heart

In his incredible Test career, Angelo Mathews lived some of the best cricket moments. When asked to pick a standout moment, the Sri Lankan legend chose not one but two- the memorable series victory in England in 2014 and the dominant whitewash of Australia in 2016.

“The win against England in England and whitewashing the Australians in Sri Lanka 3-0, that was a huge highlight and honour achieved by the entire team,” he said.

In his final words, Mathews extended heartfelt thanks to the fans and support staff, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout his Test journey.

“I am thankful to all the players who have supported me throughout, the coaches, and to all the fans for being there with me. The love that I have received, thank you so much,” he added.

Angelo Mathews appeared in 119 Tests for Sri Lanka and scored 8214 runs and 33 wickets with 16 hundreds and 45 half-centuries. Apart from that, he gifted some memorable victories to the nation. As he hung up his boots, an era ended in Sri Lankan cricket.