Rohit Sharma Shares Emotional Message For Angelo Mathews Before Bangladesh Vs Sri Lanka 1st Test; Video

As Angelo Mathews plays his final Test match for Sri Lanka against Bangladesh, India’s ODI captain Rohit Sharma has extended a heartfelt message to the veteran all-rounder. On the eve of Mathews’ final Test, Rohit shared his tribute through a video posted on Instagram Stories by Ash Asanka Wijewardena (@ash_londontown), a well-known players’ manager.

Rohit said, “Hey Angie (Angelo). Congratulations on your fantastic Test career. Tomorrow is your last Test match. I just want to wish you and the team the very best. Over the years, we’ve had really good battles, right from our U-19 days till now. You’ve been a true servant to your nation. I’m pretty sure everyone back at home appreciates what you’ve done for your country.”

“It’s something which has not been achieved by many people what you have achieved. So, congratulations on that. And moving forward, I just want to wish you and your family the very best. Happy retirement, enjoy it. We’ll see you on the other side, bro. All the best.”

Bangladesh won the toss on Tuesday, in the opening game in Galle, and opted to bat first against Sri Lanka. Mathews is set to retire as Sri Lanka's third-highest scorer in Test cricket, as he makes his 119th appearance in the longest format of the game.

Mathews Reflects on His Journey

Matthews was given a guard of honour by his teammates. It was all the more special for the all-rounder because it was at the very same venue where his Test journey had begun 16 years back. Ahead of the first Test, Mathews shared his thoughts and emotions surrounding his retirement, expressing deep gratitude for the support he has received from fans and loved ones throughout his career.

“Honestly, I can't believe the love I am receiving,” Mathews said. He also thanked the Almighty and his family, acknowledging their integral role in his journey.

“I am extremely proud to have a wonderful journey, thankful for whoever was part of it. Feeling quite special. Realising that I have played over 100 Tests. Playing for the country was my dream, it has come true, happy to be a part of the journey that SLC had over the last decade.”

Rohit Sharma Also Steps Away from Tests

Interestingly, Rohit Sharma himself bid farewell to Test cricket just last month. On May 7, 2025, the 37-year-old announced his retirement from the red-ball format via an Instagram story, bringing an end to a successful Test career. He wrote, “Hello everyone, I would just like to share that I am retiring from Test cricket. It’s been an absolute honor to represent my country in whites. Thank you for all the love and support over the years. I will continue to represent India in the ODI format.”