SL vs BAN [WATCH]: Angelo Mathews receives Guard of Honour on the opening day of Galle Take a look at

The cricketing world witnessed a heartfelt second on June 17, 2025, as Sri Lanka’s stalwart Angelo Mathews obtained a Guard of Honour from his teammates on the Galle Worldwide Stadium. This touching tribute marked his farewell Take a look at match through the first Take a look at of the Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh collection, 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 an emblem of resilience and sophistication, amassing 8,167 runs in 119 Exams at a powerful 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 checklist, trailing solely legends Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. Past the numbers, Mathews’ skill to carry out constantly each at house and overseas—scoring practically half his runs outdoors Sri Lanka—underscores his adaptability and talent throughout numerous 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 Might 2025, marks the tip of an period, although he stays accessible 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 collection in opposition to 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 wanting to problem the hosts on Galle’s spin-friendly pitches. Amid this aggressive environment, the main target stays on Mathews’ sleek 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 together with his 119th and closing 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 just isn’t taking part in the Galle Take a look at