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In a passionate outburst, Sri Lankathe off-road star Angelo Mathews has expressed concern regarding International Cricket Council (ICC) scheduling policies, which he believes are undermining the future of Test cricket. With just four Test matches scheduled in Sri Lanka in 2025 and six in 2026, Mathews’ frustrations reflect a growing sentiment among players and fans alike about dwindling opportunities for the game’s longest format.
Angelo Mathews reacts to the disheartening reality of Sri Lanka’s Test programme
Mathews took to social media to express his disbelief at the sharp reduction in Test matches, tweeting, “Absolutely shocking to hear that Sri Lanka only play 4 Test matches all year including the Australia Tests this month. @ICC.”
Absolutely shocking to hear that Srilanka only play 4 test matches all year, including the Australian tests this month @ICC .
— Angelo Mathews (@Angelo69Mathews) January 6, 2025
His comments underline a wider issue within international cricket where shorter formats often overshadow traditional Test matches, leading to a significant imbalance in the schedule. In an interview with a Sri Lankan newspaper, Mathews explained his displeasure. He emphasized that the current schedule not only hinders the career of the players, but also disrupts the rhythm essential to maintain form.
“It is really disheartening to wait a year between tests. Cricket is all about pace, and such long breaks disrupt everything, affecting players’ careers. I hope the ICC and SLC look into this and work on a much fairer scheduleMathews lamented. This sentiment resonates deeply with many cricketers who thrive on constant match exposure.
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The implications for players and the game
Sri Lanka’s bleak Test schedule is of particular concern as they prepare for critical series that could affect their World Trials Championship (WTC) aspirations The team begins 2025 with a two-Test match series against Australia but he faces a daunting five-month gap before his next series against Bangladesh. In 2026, their commitments remain minimal, with just six Tests lined up West Indies, Indiai Pakistan.
For seasoned players like Mathews, who is nearing the end of his illustrious career at age 37, this lack of opportunity is 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 do as many tests“, he added, stressing how crucial constant play is to maintaining fitness and fitness.
former captain Dimuth Karunaratne shares similar concerns. Aged 36 and with 7,165 runs in 98 matches, he too dreams of reaching the coveted 10,000 mark but feels uncertain about his future in Test cricket due to the tight schedule.
The widest impact on future generations
The ramifications 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, an essential opportunity to develop stamina, tactical skills and mental resilience. Without proper exposure to the rigors of Test cricket, budding talents may struggle to adapt when they finally step on 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 WTC finals appearance if other results are achieved. “We are determined to give it our all against the Aussies”, he declared.
The current situation in Sri Lanka serves as a reminder of the urgent need for the ICC to intervene. By addressing these scheduling inequities and ensuring fair opportunities for all nations, the ICC can help safeguard the legacy of Test cricket and its future as a beloved format within the sport.
