In an outpouring of passion, Sri Lankastar all-rounder Angelo Mathews has expressed his concern about s International Cricket Council (ICC) scheduling policies, which he believes are undermining the future of Test cricket. With just four Test matches scheduled for Sri Lanka in 2025 and six in 2026, Mathews’ frustrations reflect a growing sentiment among players and fans about dwindling opportunities for the game’s longest format.
Angelo Mathews reacts to the disheartening reality of Sri Lanka’s Test schedule
Mathews took to social media to express his disbelief at the drastic cut in Test matches, tweeting, “It is absolutely shocking to hear that Sri Lanka are only playing 4 Test matches this whole year, including the Australian Tests this month. @ICC.”
Absolutely shocking to hear that sri lanka are only playing 4 test matches this whole year including the aus tests this month @ICC .
— Angelo Mathews (@Angelo69Mathews) January 6, 2025
His remarks highlight a wider problem within international cricket, where shorter formats often overshadow traditional Test matches, leading to a significant imbalance in the schedule. In an interview with a newspaper in Sri Lanka, Mathews elaborated on his displeasure. He stressed that the current schedule not only hinders players’ careers, but also disrupts the rhythm necessary to maintain form.
“It’s really disheartening to wait a year between exams. Cricket is rhythm, and such long breaks disrupt everything, affect players’ careers. I hope the ICC and SLC will look into this and make a much fairer schedule”, lamented Mathews. This sentiment resonates deeply with many cricketers who thrive on constant exposure to matches.
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Implications for players and the game
Sri Lanka’s bleak Test schedule is particularly worrying as they prepare for critical series that could affect their World Test Championship (WTC) aspirations. The team begins 2025 with a two-Test series against Australia but faces a daunting five-month break before the next series against Bangladesh. In 2026, their commitments remain minimal, with only six tests lined up West Indies, Indiaand Pakistan.
For experienced players like Mathews, who is nearing the end of his illustrious career at age 37, this lack of opportunity presents a significant barrier to achieving personal milestones. With 8,042 runs in 116 Tests, Mathews needs just 1,958 more runs to join the exclusive 10,000-run club.
“It’s very disappointing not to get that many tests“, he added, stressing how important a consistent game is to maintain form and fitness.
Former captain Dimuth Karunaratne shares similar concerns. Aged 36 and with 7165 runs in 98 matches, he is also dreaming of the coveted 10,000-run mark, but is unsure about his future in Test cricket due to a tight schedule.
Wider impact on future generations
The fallout from this roster crisis extends beyond veteran players like Mathews and Karunaratne. Young cricketers are deprived of the vital experience that comes with regular Test matches—an opportunity essential to developing stamina, tactical skills and mental toughness. Without proper exposure to the rigors of Test cricket, emerging talents may struggle to adjust when they finally step onto the international stage.
Despite these challenges, Mathews remains hopeful about Sri Lanka’s prospects at the WTC. A successful run against Australia could pave the way for their first WTC finals appearance if other results fall into place. “We are determined to do our best against the Australians“, he declared.
The current plight of Sri Lanka serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for ICC intervention. By addressing these scheduling inequities and ensuring fair opportunities for all nations, the ICC can help preserve the legacy of Test cricket and its future as a respected format within the sport.
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