Shanto aims Galle Test win in Mathews’ farewell match
Two captains with the Test trophy, Cricfrenzy
Seven years on from the fiery Nidahas Trophy clash, Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka still carries a spark. That flame reignited during the 2023 World Cup when Angelo Mathews became the first player in cricket history to be ‘Timed Out’, following an appeal by Shakib Al Hasan—advised by then-vice captain Najmul Hossain Shanto.
Now, as Sri Lanka host Bangladesh in Galle for the first Test of the new World Test Championship cycle, Mathews prepares to bid farewell to red-ball cricket. The match begins Monday, with Shanto leading Bangladesh and eager to mark Mathews’ farewell with a win.
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Bangladesh famously won at this ground in 2022, a memory Shanto says is a source of confidence—but not a guarantee. “Every series is a new beginning. Of course, past experience gives confidence. I and Mushfiq [Rahim] bhai have good memories here, but we have to start fresh,” said the skipper at Sunday’s press conference.
With uncertainty around Mehidy Hasan Miraz's fitness, Bangladesh’s playing XI remains unsettled. Shanto remained tight-lipped about combinations, even dodging the long-standing question: will he open the innings? “I don’t want the opposition to know where I’ll bat. So I won’t say anything now,” he remarked.
On Mathews’ retirement, Shanto offered warm words: “I’ve played many times against Mathews. Many good memories. Wishing him the best for his retirement.”
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While the Sri Lankan legend steps away from the format, Shanto was also asked about his own leadership journey—particularly being removed from the ODI captaincy without prior discussion. He brushed it off, saying, “Now we’re starting a Test series. That’s where the focus should be. Thinking about the past won’t help. We need to play good cricket to achieve good results.”
As Bangladesh begin their WTC 2025–27 campaign, all eyes are on how Shanto’s side reflects their leader’s calm confidence on the field.
