Veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews has expressed concern over the declining number of Test matches for Sri Lanka, just days before his Test retirement. The 38-year-old is set to play his final match in Galle, voicing disappointment at the limited opportunities for nations outside the “Big Three” – India, England, and Australia.
Sri Lanka to Play Just Four Tests in 2025
According to the current schedule, Sri Lanka will participate in only four Tests in 2025. This is their lowest number in a calendar year since 2013, excluding the pandemic-hit 2020. Mathews emphasized that Sri Lanka cricket has contributed immensely to the sport and deserves more fixtures in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
During the 2023-25 WTC period, Australia will play 22 Tests, England 21, and India 18. In comparison, Sri Lanka has only 12 fixtures lined up—tying with Bangladesh for the fewest. Mathews pointed out this disparity, urging the International Cricket Council (ICC) and cricket boards to ensure a fairer schedule.
Mathews Urges ICC to Promote Test Cricket Equally
In his farewell press interaction, Angelo Mathews stated, “It’s quite sad. Test cricket is the pinnacle, and our younger generation is eager to play more.” He added that every cricket-playing nation should get at least 10 Test matches annually. His concern echoes earlier statements by Sri Lanka’s Test captain, Dhananjaya de Silva, who had also asked for a more balanced Test schedule.
Retirement Decision Affected by Lack of Test Matches
Although Mathews’ retirement had been on the horizon, the lack of upcoming fixtures influenced his decision to play only the first Test of the series. He felt that extending his stint would block younger players from gaining valuable experience. “There’s no match for another year, and the next player might lose an entire season,” he said.
Final Thoughts from Angelo Mathews on Test Cricket
The decision to step away from the longest format wasn’t easy for Angelo Mathews. His message was clear: nations like Sri Lanka should not be left behind in the evolving cricket landscape. With 118 Tests under his belt, he leaves behind a legacy and a call for action.
