Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews announces Test retirement

Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews has announced his decision to retire from Test cricket.

The veteran all-rounder will step aside from the red-ball format after the first Test against Bangladesh, which starts on June 17 in Galle. He has also confirmed that he will continue to be available in the One-Day Internationals and even T20Is, thereby remaining planning to remain active in white-balls formats. Mathews made his announcement public via a social media post on Friday, May 23.

"My dear friends and family, with a grateful heart and unforgettable memories - It is time for me to say goodbye to the most cherished format of the game, International Test Cricket! The past 17 years of playing cricket for Sri Lanka has been my highest honour and pride. Nothing can match that feeling of patriotism and servitude when one dons the National Jersey. I have given my everything to cricket and Cricket has given me everything in return and made me the person that I am today," Mathews wrote on 'X' formerly known as Twitter.

"I stand grateful to the game and thankful to the thousands of Sri Lanka Cricket fans who have been there for me throughout my career during my highest of highs and lowest of lows. The first Test match against Bangladesh in June will be my last red-ball appearance for my country" he added.

A chapter ends, but love for the game will always remain: Mathews

Mathews, who represented Sri Lanka in 118 Tests has truly had a prolific career as their most decorated all-rounders. He currently has 8,167 runs in red-ball cricket at a terrific average of 44.62. While he only has 33 wickets in the format, he has shared the ball alongside legends like Muttiah Muralitharan and Rangana Herath. He also captained the side in a total of 34 Tests, and was fairly successful with the bat, averaging a staggering 50.94.

He made his debut against Pakistan in Galle, and will be playing his last against Bangladesh at the same venue, making his 17-year-long Test career come full circle.

"Whilst I bid adieu to the test format, as discussed with selectors I will remain available for selection for the white ball format, If and when my country needs me, I believe this test team is a talented side with many future and present greats playing the game, Now seems like the best time to make way for a younger player to take the mantle to shine for our nation. I want to thank almighty GOD, my beloved parents my beautiful wife and amazing children along with my family and closest friends who have collectively always believed in me, backed me and stood by me through and through," the Colombo-born further wrote.

"Furthermore, I wish to extend my special thanks and gratitude to Sri Lanka cricket and all the coaches for their support right throughout my career. A chapter ends, but the love for the game will always remain, the 37-year-old concluded.