Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews set for final Test in Bangladesh series opener at Galle
Angelo Mathews will play his final Test as Sri Lanka begin a two-match series against Bangladesh in Galle. The veteran all-rounder, who debuted on the same ground in 2009, calls his career a "dream run." Sri Lanka enter the series as favorites, while Bangladesh are without key players Tamim and Shakib
Mathews to retire as Sri Lanka face Bangladesh in two-Test series
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Bangladesh without key players as Mathews reflects on career
Sri Lanka will host Bangladesh in a two-match Test series beginning Tuesday, June 17, in Galle, marking the final red-ball appearance of veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews. The series is Sri Lanka's first since the conclusion of the previous World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, where they missed out on a spot in the final.The Sri Lankan side, captained by Dhananjaya de Silva, aims to start the new WTC cycle with a strong home performance after a disappointing end to the last season. Losses in South Africa followed by defeats at home against Australia saw them slip in the standings.Also read: I would like to build a team culture where everyone is secure and happy: Shubman Gill 'We had one hand on a spot in the final but a few brain fades at crunch moments cost us dearly,' de Silva said. 'We've learnt our lessons. A strong home start lays the foundation for success on the road.'The squad includes six uncapped players, with at least one expected to debut in Galle. Spin bowling continues to be Sri Lanka's strength, led by Prabath Jayasuriya, with off-spinner Akila Dananjaya also called up.Bangladesh will be without experienced players Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, playing in Galle for the first time, acknowledged the challenge ahead.'Tamim and Shakib – those are massive boots to fill,' Shanto said. 'But this is a chance for the young guys to put their hands up. We've prepped well and we're ready for the challenge.'Angelo Mathews, 38, announced that the Galle Test will be his last in the longest format. He debuted on the same pitch in 2009 and has played 118 Tests for Sri Lanka.Also read: Gautam Gambhir said to be flying back from England days before India's test series 'It's been a dream run,' Mathews said. 'The wins in England in 2014 and whitewashing the Aussies in 2016 stand out. I've seen so many youngsters come through the ranks. I truly believe Sri Lanka's future is in good hands.'Historically, Sri Lanka have dominated Bangladesh in Test cricket, winning 20 of the 26 encounters. Bangladesh have managed just one win and five draws. The second Test will be played in Colombo starting June 25.
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