As Angelo Mathews prepares to bid adieu to Test cricket, he has received a heartfelt message from former Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Mathews is set to play his final Test match against Bangladesh in Galle, beginning on June 17, 2025, marking the end of a remarkable career in the longest format of the game.

Rohit Sharma, who recently retired from Test cricket himself, shared a touching video message for Mathews, acknowledging their long-standing rivalry and mutual respect. "Hey Angie, congratulations on your fantastic Test career," Rohit said in the video. "Over the years we've had really good battles right from our under-19 days till now. You've been a true servant to your nation and I'm pretty sure everyone back at home appreciates what you've done for your country."

The message highlights the camaraderie between the two cricketers, who have competed against each other since their junior cricket days. Rohit lauded Mathews' dedication and service to Sri Lankan cricket, recognizing his achievements on the field. "It is something which is not been achieved by many people, what you have achieved, so congratulations again on that," Rohit added. He concluded by wishing Mathews and his family the very best for the future, saying, "Happy retirement, enjoy it and we'll see you on the other side, bro. All the best."

Angelo Mathews, 38, has been a mainstay in the Sri Lankan cricket team for over 15 years. He made his Test debut at the Galle International Stadium against Pakistan in 2009, the same venue where he will play his final Test. Mathews has accumulated 8,167 runs in 118 Tests, including 16 centuries and 45 half-centuries and has also taken 33 wickets. He also served as Sri Lanka's captain in all formats from 2013 to 2017, leading the team to 13 Test wins in 34 matches.

Mathews' decision to retire from Test cricket was influenced by Sri Lanka's limited Test schedule in the coming year. With their next Test assignment a year away, he felt it was the right time to step aside and give an opportunity to a younger player. "The main reason is that we don't have many games coming up. After this, our next Test assignment is a year away. That's a very long time," Mathews explained. "I thought it's best to give an opportunity to the one replacing me in the second Test match because he's not going to get another chance till next year. And in a year, you never know what could happen."

While Mathews is retiring from Test cricket, he plans to continue playing white-ball cricket and aims to retire after the 2026 T20 World Cup, which Sri Lanka will co-host with India. "There are six more months until the next T20 World Cup, and I'll give it a try depending on what my body tells me," Mathews said. "I hope to retire from white-ball cricket at that World Cup. If we can win another World Cup, I'll try to contribute toward that. So I'll do everything I can to improve my fitness and skills over the next six months."

Rohit Sharma's message is one of many tributes pouring in for Angelo Mathews. As Mathews embarks on his final Test, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, leadership, and remarkable performances.