Angelo Mathews Calls for More Test Matches for Sri Lanka Ahead of Final Appearance

Mathews Reflects on Test Cricket's Future

As he prepares for his last Test match against Bangladesh starting Tuesday, former Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews expressed concern over the limited opportunities for Test cricket for nations outside the traditional powerhouses of India, England, and Australia.

On May 23, Mathews announced that the upcoming Test against Bangladesh in June will mark his final appearance in red-ball cricket for Sri Lanka. The team is scheduled to play only four Tests in 2025, the fewest in a calendar year since 2013.

"It's quite disappointing, to be honest. The younger players are eager for more Test cricket. Test cricket is the ultimate format, and we should advocate for more matches. These young players are passionate about it," Mathews stated, as reported by a sports news outlet.

Equal Opportunities for Sri Lanka

Mathews emphasized that Sri Lanka should be granted the same number of Test matches as top cricketing nations. He believes the team should compete in at least 10 Tests annually.

"There should be a minimum of 10 matches each year. Teams like England, India, and Australia play over 15 matches. Why can't we? We can. We must keep advocating for this. Our nation has won World Cups and contributed significantly to cricket; we deserve to play Test matches like Australia, India, and England," he added.

Test Matches in the Upcoming World Championship

In the upcoming World Test Championship cycle from 2025 to 2027, Australia is set to play 22 Tests, England 21, and India 18. In contrast, Sri Lanka is scheduled for even fewer matches than in the previous cycle, with only 12 Tests across six two-Test series, tying for the lowest with Bangladesh.

A Glimpse into Mathews' Test Career

Mathews, who debuted in Test cricket against Pakistan in 2009, has been a vital player for Sri Lanka for over 15 years, showcasing his skills as both an all-rounder and a captain.

With a total of 8,167 runs in 118 matches, he ranks third among Sri Lankans for most Test runs, trailing only Kumar Sangakkara (12,400) and Mahela Jayawardena (11,814). Additionally, he has contributed with the ball, taking 33 wickets.