Sri Lanka Shake Things Up: Dunith Wellalage In, Mathews Out for Crucial Test
Sri Lanka’s Test squad is undergoing a significant transformation as they prepare for the second Test against Bangladesh, starting July 25 in Colombo. The big headline? The legendary Angelo Mathews has officially retired from Test cricket, and in his place, Sri Lanka is banking on a rising star — Dunith Wellalage.
Mathews, who was a cornerstone of Sri Lankan cricket for over a decade, bowed out gracefully after the first Test in Galle, which ended in a rain-hit draw. His absence leaves a sizable hole, both in the middle order and in terms of leadership. But the Sri Lankan selectors have acted swiftly, choosing not just a replacement, but someone who represents the future of the team.
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Dunith Wellalage, a 21-year-old left-arm spinner and all-rounder, has been drafted in to fill the shoes of the veteran. Although he has only one Test match under his belt and is yet to pick up a wicket in the format, his record in other formats is promising. With 37 wickets in 29 ODIs and a memorable five-wicket haul against India in the 2023 Asia Cup — including the prized scalps of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli — Wellalage has shown he has the temperament for the big stage.
Statistically, his red-ball record is no slouch either. In 34 first-class games, he’s bagged 104 wickets at an average of 27.24, with six five-wicket hauls to his name. Add 1,140 runs with the bat and you’ve got a true all-rounder in the making. It’s a bold move, but one that speaks to Sri Lanka’s intent to build a squad with long-term potential.
Also joining the squad is fast bowler Vishwa Fernando, returning to the Test scene after a short layoff. Fernando’s experience — 79 wickets from 27 Tests — will be crucial, especially with Milan Rathnayake ruled out due to a side strain.
This upcoming match isn't just about team changes. It’s also a decider in the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. With the first Test ending without a result, both teams have everything to play for. Bangladesh had the upper hand in Galle before the rain interruptions, so Sri Lanka will be eager to make the most of home conditions and start this WTC cycle on a high.
With a fresh squad and new faces eager to leave a mark, the Colombo Test promises to be an exciting contest. For fans, it’s also a bittersweet moment — saying goodbye to a legend like Mathews while welcoming the new generation led by talents like Wellalage. Keep your eyes on this one — it could be the start of a new era in Sri Lankan cricket.
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