In a passionate explosion, sri lankastar all-rounder Angelo Matthews expressed concerns about International Cricket Council (ICC) A scheduling policy he believes is undermining the future of Test cricket. With only four Test matches scheduled for Sri Lanka in 2025 and six in 2026, Mathews’ frustration reflects growing feelings among players and fans alike that opportunities in the longest format of the game are dwindling.
Angelo Mathews reacts to the disappointing reality of Sri Lanka’s Test schedule.
Mathews took to social media to express his disbelief at the sharp decline in Test matches. “I was really shocked to hear that Sri Lanka would only play four Test matches all year, including the Australia Test this month. @ICC.”
It was shocking to hear that Sri Lanka would only play four Test matches all year, including this month’s Test against Australia. @ICC .
— Angelo Mathews (@Angelo69Mathews) January 6, 2025
His comments highlight a wider problem within international cricket, where shorter formats often overwhelm traditional Test matches, leading to serious imbalances in the schedule. In an interview with a Sri Lankan newspaper, Matthews detailed his complaints. He emphasized that the current schedule is not only hindering players’ careers, but also disrupting the rhythm that is essential for maintaining form.
“Waiting a year between tests is really frustrating. Rhythm is important in cricket. Such long breaks disrupt everything and affect a player’s career. I hope the ICC and SLC will look into this matter and come up with a much fairer schedule.“, Matthews lamented. This sentiment resonates deeply with many cricketers who grow up with constant exposure to the game.
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Impact on players and games
Sri Lanka’s dismal Test schedule is particularly worrisome as the country prepares for a crucial series that could impact their game. World Test Championship (WTC) yearning. The team starts with a two-Test match series against 2025. australia However, there will be a huge gap of 5 months before the next series. Bangladesh. Their commitments remain minimal, with only six tests lined up for 2026. west indies, Indiaand Pakistan.
For seasoned players like Mathews, who at age 37 is nearing the end of his illustrious career, this lack of opportunity presents a serious 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 runs club.
“It’s too bad I couldn’t test it much.“He added, emphasizing how important consistent play is to maintaining form and fitness.
former captain Dimut Karunaratne We share similar concerns. The 36-year-old, who has scored 7,165 runs in 98 matches, also dreams of reaching the coveted 10,000-run mark but feels uncertain about his future in Test cricket due to lack of schedule.
Wider impact on future generations
The consequences of this scheduling crisis extend beyond veteran players like Mathews and Karunaratne. Young cricketers are deprived of the vital experience that comes with regular Test matches – a vital opportunity to develop endurance, tactical skills and mental resilience. Without adequate exposure to the rigors of Test cricket, emerging talent may struggle to adapt when they eventually reach the international stage.
Despite these challenges, Mathews remains hopeful about Sri Lanka’s prospects at the WTC. A successful series against Australia could pave the way for their first-ever WTC final appearance if the result is different. “We are determined to give it our all against Australia“He declared.
Sri Lanka’s current predicament is a stark reminder of the urgent need for ICC intervention. By addressing these scheduling inequalities and ensuring fair opportunities for all countries, the ICC can help protect the legacy and future of Test cricket as a cherished format within the sport.
