### Angelo Mathews' Retirement: A Milestone in Sri Lankan Cricket Angelo Mathews, a prominent figure in Sri Lankan cricket, has announced that the first Test match against Bangladesh, scheduled for June 17, 2025, will mark his final appearance in red-ball cricket. This decision comes after a distinguished career spanning over 15 years, during which Mathews has played 118 Tests and served as captain. His retirement is set against the backdrop of a two-Test series against Bangladesh, a team that last faced Sri Lanka in a Test series in April 2021, where they lost one match and drew another [https://www.dhakatribune.com/sport/cricket/383906/dhananjaya-leads-sri-lanka-test-squad-against]. ### Structure of the Summary 1. **Retirement Announcement** - Mathews confirmed his retirement plans on May 23, 2025, stating that the upcoming Test will be his last [https://www.deccanchronicle.com/sports/why-angelo-mathews-is-retiring-after-first-bangladesh-test--1885775]. 2. **Significance of the Match** - The first Test against Bangladesh will not only be Mathews' farewell but also a crucial match for Sri Lanka, who are looking to rebound from a disappointing World Test Championship cycle [https://24newshd.tv/16-Jun-2025/sri-lanka-s-mathews-hails-dream-run-in-final-test-against-bangladesh]. 3. **Team Composition** - The Sri Lankan squad for the Test series includes six uncapped players, indicating a focus on youth and future talent as Mathews exits the scene [https://www.insidesport.in/cricket/sri-lanka-announce-18-man-squad-for-bangladesh-test-series-6-uncapped-players-named]. 4. **Mathews' Legacy** - Mathews reflects on his career, highlighting memorable victories, including wins in England and a series whitewash against Australia. He expresses confidence in the future of Sri Lankan cricket [https://24newshd.tv/16-Jun-2025/sri-lanka-s-mathews-hails-dream-run-in-final-test-against-bangladesh]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Career Highlights of Angelo Mathews:** - Total Tests Played: 118 - Notable Wins: - Victory in England (2014) - Whitewash against Australia (2016) - **Sri Lanka vs. Bangladesh Test History:** - Matches Played: 26 - Sri Lanka Wins: 20 - Bangladesh Wins: 1 - Draws: 5 [https://24newshd.tv/16-Jun-2025/sri-lanka-s-mathews-hails-dream-run-in-final-test-against-bangladesh]. ### Conclusion In summary, **Angelo Mathews' retirement marks the end of an era for Sri Lankan cricket**, as he steps away from the longest format of the game after a remarkable career. The upcoming Test against Bangladesh is not only a farewell for Mathews but also a pivotal moment for the Sri Lankan team as they aim to rebuild and strengthen their position in international cricket. The inclusion of young talent in the squad suggests a strategic shift towards nurturing the next generation of players, ensuring that Mathews' legacy continues to inspire future cricketers [https://www.insidesport.in/cricket/sl-playing-xi-angelo-mathews-set-for-final-test-debuts-likely-for-lahiru-udara-tharindu-rathnayake].