SL vs BAN [WATCH]: Angelo Mathews receives Guard of Honour on the opening day of Galle Test

The cricketing world witnessed a heartfelt moment on June 17, 2025, as Sri Lanka’s stalwart Angelo Mathews received a Guard of Honour from his teammates at the Galle International Stadium. This touching tribute marked his farewell Test match during the first Test of the Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh series, a contest that also kicks off the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship. Over a distinguished 16-year career, Mathews has been a pillar of Sri Lankan cricket, and this special moment celebrated his immense contribution to the sport.

A career etched in excellence and loyalty

Mathews’ journey in Test cricket began at the very same ground where he bid adieu, making the farewell all the more poignant. Since his debut in 2009, Mathews has been a symbol of resilience and class, amassing 8,167 runs in 119 Tests at an impressive average of 44.62. His tally of 16 centuries and 45 half-centuries places him third on Sri Lanka’s all-time Test run-scoring list, trailing only legends Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. Beyond the numbers, Mathews’ ability to perform consistently both at home and abroad—scoring nearly half his runs outside Sri Lanka—underscores his adaptability and skill across diverse conditions.

Not just a prolific batter, Mathews has been a dependable all-rounder, contributing crucial wickets and leadership throughout his tenure. His 118 Test appearances rank him fourth in Sri Lanka’s history, reflecting his longevity and fitness in the demanding format. His retirement from Test cricket, announced in May 2025, marks the end of an era, though he remains available for white-ball formats, continuing to serve Sri Lankan cricket in other capacities.

Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma’s moving message to Angelo Mathews ahead of his farewell Test

Angelo Mathews receives the Guard of Honour in Galle Test

The Guard of Honour ceremony at Galle was a moving spectacle, with players from the Colts Cricket Club lifting their bats as Mathews walked onto the field. This gesture symbolized respect and gratitude for a player who has been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s cricketing fabric. The timing of this tribute, during a high-stakes Test series against Bangladesh, highlights the esteem in which Mathews is held by teammates, opponents, and fans alike.

Sri Lanka, captained by Dhananjaya de Silva, aims to leverage home conditions and a blend of experienced and emerging talent to start their World Test Championship campaign strongly. Bangladesh, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, arrives confident and eager to challenge the hosts on Galle’s spin-friendly pitches. Amid this competitive atmosphere, the focus remains on Mathews’ graceful exit from Test cricket—a celebration of his enduring legacy and influence on the game.

Here’s the video:

A guard of honour at Galle for Angelo Mathews, who bids adieu to the longest format with his 119th and final Test.#SLvBAN pic.twitter.com/ZdTJkNfznf

— FanCode (@FanCode) June 17, 2025

Also READ: SL vs BAN: Here’s why Mehidy Hasan Miraz is not playing the Galle Test