As veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews prepares for what is expected to be his final Test appearance, tributes have begun pouring in from across the cricketing world. The 37-year-old, who has represented Sri Lanka in 118 Tests since his debut in 2009, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the country’s modern cricket history.

Mathews, who captained Sri Lanka to their historic first Test series win on English soil in 2014, leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, leadership, and longevity. Speaking ahead of the Galle Test, he expressed satisfaction in watching younger players like Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis — both of whom debuted under his captaincy — grow into match-winners.

“They’ve become match-winners in their own right. I’m proud we backed the right talent,” Mathews said. “The future of Sri Lankan cricket is in safe hands.”

Initially seen as a genuine all-rounder, a series of injuries curtailed Mathews’ bowling career, but he successfully reinvented himself as a specialist batter. He currently stands third on Sri Lanka’s all-time Test run-scorers list, behind only Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene.

“There’s a tinge of disappointment — I had aimed for 10,000 Test runs,” he admitted. “But I’m grateful for the opportunity to play for my country.”

Mathews also commented on Sri Lanka’s limited red-ball schedule this year, with only four Tests confirmed, saying the board had tried to arrange more matches but was constrained by the packed international calendar.

Despite recent challenges, Mathews has remained a vocal advocate for Test cricket, calling it “the pinnacle of the game.”

With his retirement looming, all eyes are on Galle, where Mathews may yet deliver one last impactful innings before drawing the curtain on a remarkable Test career.