February 04, Colombo (LNW): Dimuth Karunaratne, the former captain and stalwart of Sri Lankan cricket, has officially announced that the upcoming second Test against Australia, which is set to take place in Galle on February 6, will be his final international appearance.
Having been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s Test batting line-up for more than a decade, Karunaratne’s decision to retire comes after a period of declining form.
Despite recent struggles at the crease, his legacy as one of Sri Lanka’s most accomplished opening batsmen remains undeniable.
Karunaratne has been instrumental in several landmark Test victories, providing solidity at the top of the order and often leading from the front with his resilience and determination.
With over 100 Test caps to his name, Karunaratne’s retirement brings an end to an era in Sri Lankan cricket. His contributions to the team, both as a player and a leader, have left an indelible mark on the sport in the country.
Whilst his final match will undoubtedly be emotional for both the player and his supporters, it will also be a fitting farewell to a player whose career has spanned some of Sri Lanka’s most challenging and rewarding moments in Test cricket.
As Karunaratne steps away from the international stage, his remarkable career will be remembered for the grit and passion he brought to the game, as well as his leadership on and off the field.
The Galle Test will serve as a poignant moment in Sri Lankan cricket history, as fans and teammates alike bid farewell to one of the nation’s most respected and successful cricketers.