Galle, Feb 4 (PTI) – Former Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne has announced his decision to retire from international cricket after playing his 100th Test match. The milestone game, which marks the second and final Test against Australia, is set to commence in Galle on Thursday.
The 36-year-old, regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most accomplished batters, has accumulated 7,172 runs in 99 Tests at an average just shy of 40. His career includes 16 centuries and 34 half-centuries, spanning nearly 14 years since his debut in 2012. Additionally, he has represented Sri Lanka in 50 ODIs, scoring 1,316 runs with a century and 11 fifties to his name.
Decision to Retire
Speaking to Daily FT, Karunaratne cited the limited number of Test matches Sri Lanka plays annually as a key factor behind his decision."It is difficult for a Test player to keep himself motivated to play only four Tests a year and maintain his form," he admitted.
He also noted that with the introduction of the World Test Championship (WTC), Sri Lanka's bilateral series have reduced significantly. Given the conclusion of the ongoing WTC cycle (2023-25) and his current form, Karunaratne believes this is the right moment to step away from international cricket.
Future Plans and Final Domestic Match
Karunaratne plans to relocate to Australia with his family next month. Before that, he will make a final appearance for his first-class team, Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC), against NCC in the SLC Major Club Three-Day Tournament from February 14-16.Discussing his decision, he revealed that he consulted senior teammates Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal.
"Rather than the three of us retiring at the same time, it will be better for us to go one by one. I thought I will retire first because I know I cannot reach my next target—10,000 runs—considering the reduced number of Test matches."
Reflections on a Distinguished Career
Karunaratne acknowledged the struggles he has faced with form in recent times, including scores of 7 and 0 in the first Test against Australia, where Sri Lanka suffered a heavy defeat by an innings and 242 runs.Despite falling short of 10,000 Test runs, he expressed satisfaction with his achievements.
"Any cricketer's dream is to play 100 Tests and score 10,000 runs. When you start playing cricket, you don’t think of those targets, but as you progress, you set new goals. However, given Sri Lanka’s limited Test schedule, reaching 10,000 runs seemed too far away. But playing 100 Tests is an achievement I can be proud of."
Karunaratne also cherishes his place in Sri Lankan cricket history as the country’s seventh cricketer to reach the 100-Test milestone.
"Several players play Test cricket, but only a handful reach 100 matches. To be a member of that exclusive club makes me very happy," he said.
As he prepares for his farewell Test, Karunaratne will be looking to leave on a high note, closing a remarkable chapter in Sri Lankan cricket.
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