Image source (Angelo Mathews X/ Twitter)
A Stellar Career
Seventeen years of international cricket and being the flag bearer of his country is no easy feat. However, Angelo Mathews did both with a sense of passion and commitment that had a quiet dignity about it.
And he did so for nearly two decades. The mild-mannered cricketer carried the burden of expectations from his teammates, his nation, and his family throughout his career. Next month, when he steps onto the iconic Galle Stadium to play his final Test, it will mark his 435th appearance for Sri Lanka—a testament to his enduring value to Sri Lankan cricket.
The Start
Born in 1987 in Colombo, Mathews studied at the renowned St. Joseph’s College, the same institution where Chaminda Vaas once learned the tricks of the trade.
An 8-year-old Mathews was among the generation of children who watched Arjuna Ranatunga’s men lift the 1996 World Cup—and dreamed of a cricketing future. Ironically, his first hero was Chaminda Vaas, whose footsteps he aspired to follow. Success at school and club level earned him a place in the Sri Lanka U-23 team against New Zealand A in 2005. A year later, he made his First-Class debut for Colts Cricket Club.
Mathews has served the island nation as a talented all-rounder—a dependable batsman who could also bowl effectively. His performances led to a call-up for Sri Lanka’s tour of Zimbabwe in November 2008.
Debut and Early Years
Mathews made his ODI debut against Zimbabwe, followed by his Test debut the next year against Pakistan—a series that also marked the farewell of his idol, Chaminda Vaas. In his very first Test, Mathews showed his potential with scores of 42 and 27 in a close 50-run win, while also taking two crucial wickets. His appetite for runs was clear early on—whether it was his unbeaten 64 off 148 balls to save a Test against Pakistan in just his third match, or his stroke-filled 99 at Brabourne Stadium against India. In 2011, he scored 274 runs against Australia at an average of 91.33, proving himself as Sri Lanka’s next-generation batting stalwart after the legends retired.
The Golden Period
As responsibilities increased, Mathews entered his prime. Between December 2013 and September 2015, he scored 2,039 runs in 19 Tests at an average of 70.31, including six centuries. During this phase, he was considered one of the best batsmen in the world—both by rankings and expert opinion. By then, he had amassed 3,801 runs in 52 Tests at an average of 52.06 and seemed destined for greatness.
As captain, Mathews also led Sri Lanka to a historic series win in England in 2014—sealing a 1-0 victory in the two-match Test series. His masterful 160 at Leeds remains one of the finest innings played by a visiting captain, showcasing both his individual brilliance and leadership acumen.
Injuries and Loss of Form
The burden of expectation can weigh down even the best—and that’s what happened with Mathews.
Between 2015 and 2016, Sri Lanka witnessed the retirement of Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara, Thilan Samaraweera, and Tilakaratne Dilshan, leaving Mathews as the team’s premier batsman and captain. The transition period was difficult, and both his and the team’s performances declined.
Furthermore, from the period of October 2015 and December 2019, Mathews struggled with injuries, fitness, and form—scoring just 1,903 runs in 32 Tests at an average of 33.38. His fitness was often criticized, and with age, maintaining form became even more challenging.
Return to Form and Recent Years
A man of quiet resilience, Mathews worked on his fitness and returned to form. From January 2020 to May 2025, he scored 2,463 runs in 34 Tests at an average of 46.47. While he may not have matched his peak years, he remained a solid presence in Sri Lanka’s middle order.
Limited-Overs Cricket
Angelo Mathews was also a dependable performer in limited-overs cricket, scoring 5,916 runs in 226 ODIs at an average of 40.26, and 1,416 runs in 90 T20Is at 27.76. These numbers reflect the vital role he played across formats for nearly two decades. Dependable at the crease and adept to channelise his game as per the changing conditions, the right hander was noted for his easy going demeanour at handling pressure.
As someone who saw the changing vagaries of Sri Lankan cricket, much of it coming to face pressure from the onset of 2017, Mathews served as a dependable figure on whom the team could rely during pressure situations.
Captaincy
Leadership came naturally to Mathews. He captained Sri Lanka in 34 Tests and 106 ODIs, leading the team to 13 and 49 victories, respectively. His tactical acumen and calm demeanor made him a respected figure on and off the field.
Legacy
As Angelo Mathews draws the curtain on his illustrious 17-year career, he will be remembered as one of the finest cricketers Sri Lanka has ever produced. A warrior through transition, a leader by example, and a true servant of Sri Lankan cricket—Mathews leaves behind a legacy of resilience, excellence, and unwavering commitment.
Fantastic 😍😍