Angelo Mathews walked off the field at Galle on Tuesday, possibly for the last time in Test cricket. He made 39 in the first innings, and as he made his way back to the pavilion, the Bangladesh players lined up to give him a guard of honour — a simple gesture of respect for someone who has been around for nearly two decades. It was Mathews’ 119th Test, and it brings the curtain down on a long and steady career in the format. Over 17 years, he became one of Sri Lanka’s most reliable players — with the bat, with the ball when needed, and also as a calm voice in the dressing room.His tally of 8,206 runs and 16 centuries doesn’t tell the full story. He played through Sri Lanka’s transition period, carrying extra responsibility after the retirements of bigger names. He kept going quietly, game after game.
Earlier this week, Mathews had confirmed on social media that this would be his last Test. “I have given everything to cricket and cricket has given me everything in return,” he wrote, adding that he would still be available for white-ball formats if the team needs him.Quiz: Who’s that IPL player? The match in Galle isn’t just about runs or wickets. It’s about a player signing off from a format he gave so much to. Mathews’ teammates, the crowd, and even his opponents seemed to sense that. The applause wasn’t loud, but it felt genuine. There were no grand speeches, no waving flags — just a quiet nod to a player who gave Sri Lankan cricket his best years. It was a fitting farewell. Nothing dramatic, just respectful much like the man himself.