Rohit Sharma Reflects on Intense Rivalries: ‘We Had Some Pretty Good Battles’
Sri Lankan cricket legend Angelo Mathews is poised to retire from Test cricket following the first Test against Bangladesh in Galle, marking his 119th Test appearance. While Mathews concludes his Test career, he will continue to participate in white-ball formats, aiming to retire after the T20 World Cup in 2026. With a remarkable record of 8,167 runs, including 16 centuries and 45 half-centuries, Mathews leaves behind a legacy as one of Sri Lanka’s top all-rounders.
Rohit Sharma, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, shared heartfelt wishes for Mathews, reflecting on their long-standing rivalry and camaraderie in the sport. Mathews expressed his commitment to white-ball cricket, hoping to contribute to Sri Lanka’s success in the upcoming T20 World Cup while preparing for his farewell match against Bangladesh.
Angelo Mathews: A Test Cricket Icon
Angelo Mathews has established himself as a cornerstone of Sri Lankan cricket throughout his extensive career. With a total of 8,167 runs in 118 Tests, he boasts an impressive average, complemented by 16 centuries and 45 half-centuries. His role as an all-rounder has also seen him contribute with the ball, taking 33 wickets. Mathews’ final Test against Bangladesh will be a significant moment, not just for him but for Sri Lankan cricket, as it marks the end of a notable era. The two-match Test series will provide Mathews with a platform to showcase his skills one last time in the red-ball format.
Rohit Sharma’s Tribute
Rohit Sharma, who recently announced his own retirement from Test cricket, took a moment to honor Mathews. In a heartfelt video message, Rohit reflected on their shared journey from their under-19 days to their respective careers. He commended Mathews for his dedication to Sri Lankan cricket, stating, “You’ve been a true servant for your nation.” This acknowledgment highlights the mutual respect between the two players, who have faced each other many times on the field.
Looking Ahead: Mathews’ Future in White-Ball Cricket
As Mathews prepares for his farewell Test, he is also looking ahead to his future in white-ball cricket. He plans to continue competing until the 2026 T20 World Cup, expressing a desire to help Sri Lanka capture another title. Mathews stated, “There are six more months until the next T20 World Cup, and I’ll give it a try depending on what my body tells me.” His focus on fitness and skill development reflects his commitment to the sport and his country, as he aims to contribute to Sri Lanka’s success in the shorter formats of the game.
A Final Chapter in Sri Lankan Cricket
The upcoming Test series against Bangladesh represents the culmination of Mathews’ illustrious Test career. Unlike Rohit Sharma’s exit without a farewell match, Mathews will have the opportunity to bid farewell to the format he has served so well. As he steps onto the field in Galle, all eyes will be on this cricketing stalwart, eager to witness his final performance. The series not only marks a personal milestone for Mathews but also signifies the end of an era for Sri Lanka cricket, as they prepare to transition into a new generation of players.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
